Fact Check: "Ozempic causes blindness"
What We Know
Ozempic, a medication that contains the active ingredient semaglutide, is primarily used for weight management and diabetes control. Recent studies have raised concerns regarding its potential link to serious eye conditions, including blindness. A small study published in JAMA Ophthalmology reported that nine patients taking semaglutide or tirzepatide experienced severe vision issues, with seven developing non-arteritic ischemic anterior optic neuropathy (NAION), which can lead to permanent vision loss (source-1, source-3). Other conditions noted include bilateral papillitis and paracentral acute middle maculopathy, both of which can also result in significant vision impairment (source-1, source-3).
The mechanisms behind these complications are not fully understood, but researchers suggest that rapid changes in blood sugar levels associated with these medications might contribute to eye issues (source-3). It is important to note that while these complications have been reported, they appear to be rare, with most patients using these medications experiencing no severe side effects (source-2).
Analysis
The claim that "Ozempic causes blindness" is partially supported by emerging research, particularly the findings from the JAMA Ophthalmology study, which indicates a potential link between semaglutide and serious eye conditions (source-1, source-3). However, the evidence is based on a small sample size of nine patients, which raises questions about the generalizability of the findings.
Moreover, experts emphasize that these complications are rare and that millions of patients have used GLP-1 medications without experiencing significant eye issues (source-2). The American Academy of Ophthalmology has also noted that while there are potential risks, the overall incidence of severe eye problems remains low (source-2).
The reliability of the sources is generally high, with peer-reviewed studies and expert opinions from medical professionals providing the foundation for the claims. However, the sensational nature of some media reports may lead to exaggerated perceptions of risk (source-5, source-6).
Conclusion
The claim that "Ozempic causes blindness" is Partially True. While there is emerging evidence linking Ozempic to serious eye conditions, including blindness, these occurrences are rare and based on limited data. The potential for severe side effects exists, but the majority of users do not experience significant vision problems. Patients are advised to consult their healthcare providers if they notice changes in their vision while using these medications.
Sources
- Scientists Explain ‘Ozempic Blindness,’ Link Between Sudden ... (https://ritms.rutgers.edu/news/scientists-explain-ozempic-blindness-link-between-sudden-vision-loss-and-weight-loss-drugs/)
- Can Ozempic Affect Eye Health? Here’s What Ophthalmologists ... (https://www.aao.org/eye-health/news/can-ozempic-affect-eye-health-here-s-what-ophthalm)
- Vision loss: GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic linked to 3 eye conditions (https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/review-3-potentially-blinding-eye-conditions-glp-1-drugs-ozempic-mounjaro)
- Ozempic Blindness - WebMD (https://www.webmd.com/obesity/ozempic-blindness)
- Ozempic and blindness: What we know about weight loss side ... (https://www.newsweek.com/ozempic-blindness-weight-loss-side-effects-2029517)
- More Americans on Ozempic go BLIND as doctors sound alarm ... (https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14380795/ozempic-patients-blind-doctors-effect.html)
- Ozempic is making some patients go blind: 'Will Ozempic ... (https://www.mdlinx.com/article/ozempic-is-making-some-patients-go-blind-will-ozempic-survive-this-well-see/skp5GSFyBAvvSZrIYwg2X)
