Recent findings have raised concerns about a possible connection between certain diabetes and weight-loss medications, specifically Ozempic® and Zepbound®, and rare eye conditions that could lead to vision loss. These results were published in the scientific journal JAMA Ophthalmology.
Ozempic® functions by replicating the effects of the GLP-1 hormone. This hormone plays a crucial role in boosting insulin production, lowering glucagon levels, slowing down the emptying of the stomach, and curbing appetite. These combined effects assist in managing blood sugar levels for individuals with type 2 diabetes and promote weight loss for those who are overweight or obese.
The study looked at nine patients who were taking drugs containing semaglutide, the active ingredient found in Ozempic® and Wegovy®, or tirzepatide, found in Mounjaro and Zepbound®. Here’s what was discovered:
– Seven of the nine patients developed a rare eye condition called NAION, which affects blood flow to the optic nerve and can cause sudden and permanent blindness. NAION is the most common optic nerve disease in older adults in the United States.
– One patient experienced bilateral papillitis, which means swelling of both optic nerve heads.
– Another patient developed a condition called paracentral acute middle maculopathy, which involves the loss of blood flow to a part of the retina.
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The researchers believe that these eye problems might be linked to rapid changes in blood sugar levels caused by these drugs, rather than the drugs themselves directly damaging the eyes.
Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic®, stressed that patient safety is very important to them. They have looked into reports of eye conditions among users of their medications and found no direct evidence that the drugs cause NAION. They noted that eye issues are common in people with diabetes, regardless of the medication they take.
The lead researcher, Dr. Bradley Katz, emphasized that the study is not advising people to stop taking these medications. Instead, if you notice any changes in your vision while on these drugs, you should talk to your doctor and see an eye specialist promptly.
Earlier studies from last year also suggested a possible connection between semaglutide and NAION. One such study found that diabetes patients using Ozempic® were more than twice as likely to develop NAION compared to those using other diabetes drugs. However, it’s important to note that the overall risk remains low. According to the study, for someone taking Ozempic® for 20 years, the chance of developing NAION is estimated to be between 0.3% and 0.5%.
The company explained that NAION, a serious eye condition, is not listed as a known side effect for their drugs like Ozempic® and Wegovy®. After looking at this new study, they believe that the overall benefits and risks of semaglutide, the active ingredient in these medications, are still the same as before.
If you’re taking Ozempic®, Zepbound®, or similar medications, there is currently no strong evidence that these drugs directly harm your eyes. However, it’s crucial to monitor any changes in your vision and report them to your healthcare provider. Regular check-ups with your eye doctor can also help catch any problems early, ensuring your eye health is protected while managing your diabetes.
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Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general knowledge only and should not be considered medical advice. For any questions or concerns about your health or medications, please consult your physician or healthcare provider. They are best equipped to provide guidance specific to your medical needs.
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