A drug used to treat diabetes is now in the news after new research. Recent research indicates that this drug may increase the risk of a rare but serious eye problem that can permanently weaken or even destroy vision. Let us explain what new information has emerged and why this drug is in the news.
Scientists at the University of Southern Denmark in Denmark assessed the safety of Ozempic in two large studies. This drug helps control blood sugar and promote weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes, which has led to its rapid increase in use in recent years. The problem focused on in the research is called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). It occurs when blood flow to the optic nerve of the eye is suddenly reduced. The optic nerve transmits visual information from the eye to the brain, so if it is affected, it can lead to sudden vision loss, which in many cases is permanent.
Although NAION is a rare disease, doctors take it very seriously due to its serious consequences. Patients can lose vision in one eye, and in some cases, the other eye can also be affected. The issue began with a small study in the US, which claimed that taking Ozempic could double the risk of NAION. Now, a large-scale study in Denmark has further strengthened this suspicion.
One study analyzed data from over 424,000 type 2 diabetes patients, of whom approximately 106,000 were taking Ozempic. The results showed that those using this drug had nearly twice the risk of NAION compared to those taking other medications. Researchers also noted changes over time. Before 2018, when the drug’s use was low, 60 to 70 cases of NAION were reported each year. In recent years, this number has increased to around 150, with most cases occurring in diabetic patients.
A second study comparing new patients with those using other medications also found that those taking Ozempic had nearly twice the risk. However, experts also clarify that overall, this risk is still low. Most patients do not experience this problem, and the benefits of controlling blood sugar are significant.