© Freepik
March 18, 2026
PMC Redaktion
Ozempic and Wegovy may increase the risk of sudden vision loss, according to a new study. Experts raise concerns about eye health and safety.
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A recent study in the British Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that taking semaglutide preparations such as Wegovy and Ozempic may be associated with an increased risk of ischemic optic neuropathy (ION) – a rare condition with sudden vision loss.
GLP-1 receptor agonists are among the most discussed agents in modern medicine. The common active ingredient Semaglutide is found in both Wegovy (approved for weight reduction in obesity) as well as in Ozempic(for the treatment of type 2 diabetes).
These medications mimic the body's own hormone GLP-1 and act on three levels:
Due to their effectiveness, they are increasingly being prescribed worldwide – which increases the importance of comprehensive safety data.
Canadian researchers analyzed side effect data from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from the period 2017 to 2024. ischemic optic neuropathy (ION) – a rare but potentially irreversible eye disease in which the optic nerve is damaged due to insufficient blood supply.
ION can lead to sudden, permanent vision loss and is considered an ophthalmological emergency.
Among the users of Wegovy were 28 cases of ION reported - with an approximately five times higher risk compared to Ozempic. For Ozempic the researchers documented 47 cases, although over a longer observation period. The oral preparation Rybelsus showed no clear association with ION.
There was also a noticeable gender difference: as women to develop ischemic optic neuropathy.
All cases come from a database with over 30 million adverse reaction reports – the absolute number of ION cases remains vanishingly small in comparison.
Further insights:
The researchers mention the higher dosage of Wegovy as a possible explanation:
However, this hypothesis has not yet been conclusively confirmed and is the subject of further research.
Despite the media attention, the absolute risk remains statistically very low. ION is a rare disease – even without medication.
Nevertheless, the study highlights the need for:
The study results are no reason to stop Wegovy or Ozempic on your own. However, it is recommended:
✔️ See a doctor immediately if there are sudden vision disturbances, blurred vision, or vision field loss ✔️ Regular eye examinations – especially with pre-existing risk factors ✔️ Open conversation with doctors about individual risks and therapy alternatives
Can Wegovy really cause vision loss? A new study shows a statistical association between Wegovy and ischemic optic neuropathy (ION). However, a direct causal relationship has not been proven. The absolute risk remains very low.
What is ischemic optic neuropathy (ION)? ION is a condition where the optic nerve is damaged due to circulation disorders. It can lead to sudden, sometimes permanent vision loss and is considered an emergency.
Should I stop taking Ozempic or Wegovy because of this study? No – not without consulting your doctor. The absolute number of cases is very low. Talk to your doctor about your individual risk.
Which semaglutide preparations are affected? The study shows abnormalities in Wegovy and Ozempic (injectable forms). No clear connection was found for the oral preparation Rybelsus.
GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Ozempic have changed the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, the current study warns of the need for vigilance: Even highly effective therapies can have rare risks, which only become visible with widespread use.
For patients: stay informed, get regular check-ups, and don’t wait if you have vision problems.
