Danish Studies Reveal Potential Link Between Ozempic and Rare Eye Condition NAION
Recent research conducted in Denmark has uncovered a potential association between the diabetes drug Ozempic (semaglutid) and a rare but serious eye disease known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Two separate registry studies, prompted by an earlier American study hinting at a similar risk, investigated this connection in individuals with type 2 diabetes. NAION, characterized by a sudden loss of blood supply to the optic nerve, leads to impaired vision and currently has no effective treatment. This discovery raises concerns about the potential ocular side effects of Ozempic, particularly for individuals managing their type 2 diabetes with this medication.
The first Danish study analyzed data from over 424,000 patients with type 2 diabetes, of whom approximately 106,000 were treated with Ozempic. The second study incorporated both Danish and Norwegian patients receiving either Ozempic or another diabetes medication. Crucially, both studies accounted for confounding factors like age, gender, blood sugar levels, and other pre-existing medical conditions. The findings consistently demonstrated an elevated risk of NAION among patients using Ozempic compared to those on alternative treatments. It is important to note that while the first study has been peer-reviewed and awaits publication, the second study is yet to undergo this rigorous process, urging caution in interpreting the results.
While the identified risk increase is statistically significant, it is essential to understand the baseline risk. According to these studies, the annual risk of developing NAION for Ozempic users is approximately 0.2 per 1,000 patients. Prior to these findings, around 70 cases of NAION were reported annually in Denmark; this number has now risen to approximately 150. This translates to a relatively small absolute risk increase. However, given the seriousness of NAION and the widespread use of Ozempic, these findings warrant further investigation and careful consideration by both healthcare professionals and patients.
The question of whether Wegovy, a weight-loss medication containing the same active ingredient as Ozempic (semaglutid), carries similar risks is pertinent. While the Danish studies focused solely on diabetes patients using Ozempic for blood sugar control, the aforementioned American study also examined non-diabetic individuals taking Wegovy for weight management. This study also revealed an increased NAION risk in the Wegovy group, raising concerns about the potential effects of semaglutid itself, regardless of its application for diabetes or weight loss. The underlying mechanism linking semaglutid to NAION remains unclear and requires further research.
The emergence of rare but serious side effects like NAION is not uncommon after a medication has been on the market for several years. While the findings are concerning, researchers emphasize that the risk associated with Ozempic is neither more severe nor more frequent than rare adverse events observed with other medications that continue to be used. It is crucial that patients do not discontinue their medication without first consulting their doctor. Untreated type 2 diabetes can lead to a range of complications, including eye problems, which, although generally less severe than NAION, are more common. Furthermore, semaglutid has demonstrated protective effects against cardiovascular diseases, a significant concern for individuals with diabetes.
For patients concerned about the potential risk of NAION, discussing alternative treatment options with their doctor is crucial. A balanced assessment of the benefits of Ozempic or Wegovy in managing diabetes or weight, respectively, weighed against the potential risk of NAION, should guide individual treatment decisions. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, has conducted its own review of these studies but currently does not plan to modify the drug’s risk profile. However, the Danish Medicines Agency has requested the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to conduct a thorough investigation into this potential link. This further investigation will provide more clarity and guidance on the safe and effective use of Ozempic and Wegovy moving forward.
