Recent research from the University of Southern Denmark has raised concerns over the diabetes medication Ozempic, suggesting it may double the risk of developing non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a rare condition that can lead to permanent vision loss. This finding corroborates earlier results from a U.S. study and adds new data on the potential risks associated with the medication.
The studies, conducted by two separate research teams, analyzed extensive data from Danish and Norwegian health registers, focusing on individuals with type 2 diabetes using Ozempic. The results show a significant increase in the incidence of NAION among users of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, compared to those on other diabetes treatments.
In the first study, which included over 424,000 Danish participants, researchers found that the risk of developing NAION was doubled for those taking Ozempic. This condition, caused by reduced blood flow to the optic nerve, can result in severe, irreversible vision damage. In a second, unpublished study, a smaller cohort of type 2 diabetes patients also showed similar findings, though the study did not undergo peer review.
Despite these findings, the researchers stress that the absolute risk of developing NAION remains low. They emphasize that these results should serve as a guide for doctors and patients in making informed decisions about the benefits and risks of Ozempic treatment.
Professor Anton Pottegård, a lead author of the studies, highlighted the significance of the findings, noting that while the condition is rare, the consistent increase in risk across both studies warrants attention. However, Pottegård also underscored that the studies were not designed to discourage the use of Ozempic, especially given the potential for eye complications with untreated diabetes, which tend to be less severe but more common than NAION.
Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, has responded to the findings by acknowledging the rare nature of NAION but maintaining that the benefit-risk profile of semaglutide remains unchanged. A company spokesperson noted that although the relative risk of developing NAION is doubled, the absolute number of cases remains low, and no direct causal relationship has been established between semaglutide and NAION.
Health experts have weighed in on the study, acknowledging the need for further research but also cautioning against undue alarm. Ophthalmologist Dr. Benjamin Bert pointed out that the risk of NAION associated with Ozempic is concerning, but emphasized that individual treatment plans should take into account both the potential benefits of the medication and its risks. Dr. Howard Krauss, a neuro-ophthalmologist, echoed this, cautioning against excessive fear over a rare side effect that could undermine the benefits of treating type 2 diabetes with Ozempic.
The regulatory bodies overseeing the safety of semaglutide are already reviewing the new data, and further studies into the underlying mechanisms and prevalence of NAION are expected. Pottegård called for more research to identify patients at higher risk for this adverse effect.
While the risk of NAION remains low, these findings will likely fuel ongoing discussions among healthcare providers and patients regarding the long-term safety of Ozempic and other medications in its class.
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