Ozempic, a medication containing semaglutide, has gained attention for its ability to help control blood sugar and support weight loss. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for managing type 2 diabetes, this injectable drug is popular among patients. However, it can cause side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. These often improve as the body adjusts to the weekly injections. Recently, some studies have raised concerns about a possible connection between Ozempic and vision problems. Is there a real risk of blindness? Here is what experts say.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a type of medicine called a GLP-1 receptor agonist. This means it mimics a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps regulate blood sugar, especially after meals. The drug is given once a week by injection under the skin. It is mainly used to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes and can also aid in weight loss when combined with diet and exercise.
Benefits of Ozempic
- Blood Sugar Control: Ozempic helps the pancreas release more insulin when blood sugar rises. This lowers blood sugar levels with little risk of causing dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). It also reduces the release of glucagon, another hormone that raises blood sugar.
- Slower Digestion: The drug slows how fast food leaves the stomach and enters the intestines. This creates a feeling of fullness, reduces blood sugar spikes after meals, and may assist in losing weight.
Is There a Link Between Ozempic and Blindness?
There is no direct link between Ozempic and blindness. However, some indirect risks exist, especially for people with diabetes.
Diabetic Retinopathy
This eye condition affects the blood vessels in the retina and is common in people with diabetes. Rapid improvement in blood sugar, like that caused by Ozempic, can sometimes temporarily worsen diabetic retinopathy. If not monitored, this may affect vision. A two-year study showed a slightly higher rate of diabetic retinopathy complications in patients taking Ozempic (3%) compared to those on a placebo (1.8%).
Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION)
Some studies have linked semaglutide with NAION, a sudden vision loss caused by reduced blood flow to the optic nerve. A 2024 study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found cases of NAION in patients using semaglutide. A review in early 2025 reported nine patients on semaglutide or a similar drug who developed NAION or other eye conditions that can lead to vision loss.
Can Vision Improve After Stopping Ozempic?
If vision changes are due to diabetic retinopathy worsened by quick blood sugar control, vision may stabilize or improve over time, even if the medication is continued. But if vision loss is caused by NAION or similar conditions, it is often permanent, although some patients might recover partially. The outcome depends on the underlying cause.
Other Side Effects of Ozempic
Most side effects relate to the digestive system, such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and stomach pain. Less common but serious effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, low blood sugar (especially if combined with other diabetes drugs), and acute kidney injury, often caused by dehydration from severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
How to Reduce the Risk of Vision Problems and Side Effects
- Have regular eye exams, especially if you have diabetes, to detect any changes early.
- Report any vision changes to your doctor immediately.
- Doctors typically start Ozempic at a low dose and increase it slowly to reduce risks.
- Stay well hydrated to prevent kidney issues related to side effects.
Bottom Line
There is no strong evidence that Ozempic directly causes blindness. Vision loss is rare and usually linked to underlying diabetic eye disease or other conditions. If you are using Ozempic and notice any vision changes, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Related Topics
