Eye stroke alert: Ozempic linked to rare vision-loss condition
And yes, it could mess with your vision in a big way.
The condition is called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, or NAION for short. But you'll often hear it described more simply as an 'eye stroke.' It happens when the blood supply to your optic nerve suddenly drops, damaging the nerve and causing vision loss—usually in just one eye, and often without warning.
Now here's the thing: the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has officially listed NAION as a very rare side effect of semaglutide—the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy.
According to their findings, it affects roughly 1 in 10,000 people. Not exactly common, but not zero either. And some researchers believe people with existing health conditions like type 2 diabetes might face a slightly higher risk.
So why does this happen? The exact reason isn't fully nailed down yet, but it's believed that rapid changes in blood sugar (which these medications are known to cause) may play a role. Basically, your optic nerve needs consistent blood flow, and when that gets thrown off—bam, you could end up with NAION.
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Here's what to watch out for:
Sudden loss of vision in one eye
Blurry or dim vision
A dark patch or 'hole' in your central vision
If any of that sounds familiar—or happens out of nowhere—don't wait it out. Get medical help immediately. Catching it early could make a difference in protecting your sight.
So, should you freak out?
Not necessarily. The odds are still pretty low, and Ozempic/Wegovy are helping a lot of people manage serious health issues. But if you're already at risk—especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea—it's worth talking to your doctor. Ask about the pros and cons. Don't panic, just be informed.
Your eyes are too important to take chances with. If something feels off, trust your gut and get it checked. It's your vision—we're talking about seeing the world clearly, literally.
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