For many adults, New Year’s resolutions usually include losing those pesky ten, twenty, or more pounds that refuse to budge by joining a gym and going on a calorie-restrictive diet. With the introduction of semaglutide — a weight-loss drug for managing type-2 diabetes and obesity such as Ozempic or Wegovy — that goal can seem within reach for those interested in taking medication to assist with weight loss. But, as with most medications, there are side effects, and semaglutide is no different. And since this is a blog about all things vision, we’ll delve into how this drug can cause optic neuropathy, a condition that is on the rise as more people use Ozempic.

Optic Neuropathy 

Optic Neuropathy happens when the optic nerve, which carries visual information from the eye to the brain, becomes damaged. This can cause vision loss, impaired color vision, and other visual disturbances, including blindness. The severity and type of symptoms depend on the underlying cause and the extent of the damage. Researchers at Massachusetts General Brigham have discovered that, “Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION) is the second-leading cause of optic nerve blindness (second only to glaucoma) and it is the most common cause of sudden optic nerve blindness. NAION is thought to be caused by reduced blood flow to the optic nerve head, with the consequence of permanent visual loss in one eye.”

While Ozempic itself doesn’t directly cause NAION, its effects on glucose control might unmask or worsen vascular complications in some people. Semaglutide medications cause rapid reductions in blood sugar levels, which can affect blood vessels in the retina and possibly cause optic neuropathy or aggravate underlying conditions such as diabetic retinopathy.

Symtoms

If you are using Ozempic or are considering doing so, watch out for the following symptoms and talk to your treating physician and eye-care professional about them:

• Blurred Vision: A sudden or gradual loss of clarity in one or both eyes.
• Color Vision Impairment: Reduced ability to distinguish colors, especially red and green.
• Visual Field Loss: Dark or blurry areas in your field of vision.
• Pain: In some cases (e.g., optic neuritis), pain occurs, especially with eye movement.

It is very important to get regular comprehensive eye exams that include eye dilation or Optomap retinal imaging to find out your risk of diabetic retinopathy or optic nerve damage. Early detection is key to better treatment outcomes.