Wegovy linked to nearly five-fold higher risk of ischemic optic neuropathy than Ozempic

A new study published in British Journal of Ophthalmology has compared the risk of ischemic optic neuropathy (ION) among people who take semaglutide medication.

As part of the study, the scientists analysed 30 million reports from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System between 2017 and 2024.

Researchers found that taking Wegovy was associated with a 4.74 higher risk of ION when compared to those taking Ozempic.

They also determined that men had a 3.3 times higher risk of developing ION than women.

“These findings highlight a potential dose-dependent safety concern that warrants urgent prospective evaluation to guide prescribing and regulatory policy,” the authors highlighted.

In a commentary linked to the study, the scientists reflected: “These findings add to an emerging body of growing literature reporting ocular complications with anti-obesity medication which warrants further scrutiny and urgent clarification for ophthalmologists.”

In February, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued a drug safety update noting the association between semaglutide and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.

“Patients reporting a sudden loss of vision, including partial loss, while on semaglutide treatment should be urgently referred for ophthalmological examination,” the MRHA stated.