Fatshimetrie recently published a study highlighting a possible correlation between taking medications such as Ozempic or Wegovy and an increased risk of developing a rare form of blindness called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). While the news may raise concerns, doctors say it should not deter patients from using these medications to treat diabetes or obesity.
Indeed, doctors at Mass Eye and Ear observed an unusually high number of patients with NAION last year, specifically those taking semaglutide medications. Although NAION is a relatively rare condition, with approximately 10 cases per 100,000 people in the general population, the study found that diabetic patients taking semaglutide were more than four times more likely to develop NAION, while People who were overweight or obese were more than seven times more at risk.
It’s important to note that this study, published in the medical journal JAMA Ophthalmology, cannot conclusively prove that semaglutide medications cause NAION. Additionally, the limited number of patients involved and the fact that the study took place in a specialized medical center suggest that these findings may not apply to a broader population.
Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of semaglutide drugs in the United States, emphasized that the study data are not sufficient to establish a causal association between the use of these drugs and NAION. Patient safety remains a priority for the company, which takes all complaints of adverse events related to its medications very seriously.
Despite the increased risk of NAION, experts agree that this should not deter the use of semaglutide medications for the treatment of diabetes or obesity. These medications have provided significant benefits, and although NAION is a concern, it remains a relatively rare condition.
In conclusion, although this study raises legitimate questions, it is crucial to keep in mind that the benefits of semaglutide medications always outweigh the potential risks. It is recommended that patients and their doctors have open and informed discussions about the potential risks associated with these medications, while keeping in mind the benefits they may provide in the treatment of diabetes and obesity. .