Concerns are mounting over a disturbing side effect linked to weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro, as more patients report experiencing sudden and irreversible blindness. Medical experts are warning users to monitor their eye health closely and seek immediate attention if they notice any changes in their vision.
A recent report documented nine cases of patients who suffered vision loss after taking semaglutide or tirzepatide, the active ingredients in these medications. In some instances, blindness occurred after just one dose, while others developed severe eye damage after prolonged use.
How Ozempic blindness happens
The exact cause of vision loss related to Ozempic and similar drugs remains unclear, but researchers suspect it may be linked to the way these medications rapidly lower blood sugar levels. A sudden drop in blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the eyes, leading to inflammation and restricted blood flow.
A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology suggests that abrupt changes in blood sugar levels may weaken blood vessels in the retina, increasing the risk of vision impairment.
One case involved a woman who lost all vision in her left eye after just one dose of semaglutide. Two months later, she resumed the medication for diabetes management, only to wake up completely blind in her right eye.
Another patient who had been using semaglutide for a year reported noticing a painless shadow over her left eye one morning. Medical tests revealed severe blood vessel damage in her retina, leading to permanent blindness.
In another instance, a man who had been taking tirzepatide for one year developed internal bleeding in his eye. Doctors initially dismissed the idea that the drug could be responsible, but his case has since contributed to growing concerns about a possible connection.
Medical experts urge caution
The American Academy of Ophthalmology has acknowledged the alarming reports of sudden blindness among Ozempic users and has issued a warning urging patients to remain cautious. Those experiencing blurred vision, eye pain, or shadows in their sight are advised to stop taking semaglutide or tirzepatide and seek immediate medical attention.
Although the academy has not called for an outright ban on these medications, it has emphasized the need for patients and physicians to closely monitor any potential side effects. Doctors are also recommending that those using these drugs undergo routine eye exams to detect early signs of retinal damage.
Some reports have linked Ozempic and Wegovy to non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, or NAION, a rare condition affecting the optic nerve. Studies suggest that diabetic patients taking semaglutide may be four times more likely to develop this condition, while overweight or obese individuals face an even higher risk.
Should Ozempic users be concerned?
Despite growing concerns, medical professionals stress that more research is needed to determine how widespread the risk of Ozempic blindness may be. These drugs have been widely praised for their effectiveness in weight loss and diabetes management, but experts caution that patients must weigh the potential benefits against the risks.
Individuals taking Ozempic, Mounjaro, or similar medications who experience any visual disturbances should seek medical evaluation immediately. Early detection could help prevent further vision loss, and doctors may recommend discontinuing the drug if necessary.
As reports of Ozempic blindness continue to surface, researchers are calling for further studies to understand the long-term safety of these increasingly popular weight loss medications.
Luis Gochoco is a seasoned managing editor and writer with over a decade of experience covering politics, technology, gaming, and entertainment news. With a keen eye for breaking stories and in-depth analysis, he has established himself as a trusted voice in digital journalism. Luis is one of the key forces behind the success of GameNGuide, contributing to 12 million views through engaging and high-traffic content. He also played a pivotal role in generating 8 million views on International Business Times, shaping the platform’s technology and gaming coverage.
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