Can Ozempic cause blindness, and what does the research actually show? If you take Ozempic, Wegovy, or another GLP 1 medication, headlines about vision loss can be unsettling. How big is the risk, who may be more vulnerable, and what should you do if your vision suddenly changes?
In this episode of the In Focus podcast, board certified ophthalmologist Dr. Rupa Wong reviews the evidence linking semaglutide to NAION, a rare optic nerve condition that can cause sudden, painless vision loss. She explains what the studies do and do not show, how relative risk differs from absolute risk, and why recommendations may differ for people with type 2 diabetes versus those taking semaglutide for weight loss. You will also learn what to discuss with your prescriber and eye doctor before changing treatment and which symptoms require urgent evaluation.
IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 Can Ozempic Cause Blindness?
02:18 What Is NAION?
03:42 How Rare Is NAION?
04:01 Can Diabetes Cause Optic Nerve Damage?
05:20 Is Ozempic Linked to Vision Loss?
06:38 What Do Eye Doctors Say About Ozempic?
08:35 What Are the Chances of Vision Loss With Ozempic?
11:16 Can Blood Sugar Changes Affect Your Vision?
12:49 Should I Stop Taking Ozempic?
13:39 Should I Tell My Eye Doctor I Take Ozempic?
15:00 Do I Need an Eye Exam Before Starting Ozempic?
16:04 What Should I Do If I Suddenly Lose Vision in One Eye?
16:46 Taking Ozempic for Diabetes vs. Weight Loss
18:43 How Can I Protect My Eyes While Taking Ozempic?
19:28 Ozempic and Vision Loss: What Should I Know?
IN FOCUS WITH DR. RUPA WONG:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQ6yGQlJEBHouNHGZJgsAPspu4nJhrDRd&si=-G1WPggk3LzjHyz9
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-focus/id1569697237
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3en4olHWr48cyWaUikrcje?si=c606ebf291294d03
HOST RESOURCES:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrupawong
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrRupaWong
Newsletter: https://www.drrupawong.com/sign-up
Become a Patient: https://www.honolulueyeclinic.com
Earn FREE CE/CME Credits: https://learnatpinnacle.com
This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network!
ABOUT DR. RUPA WONG:
Rupa Wong, MD is an Ivy League trained board certified pediatric ophthalmologist and adult strabismus surgeon, wife, mom to 3 kids, entrepreneur, and the managing partner of Honolulu Eye Clinic for the past 15 years. She is passionate about helping the modern working mom focus on what matters most as she balances her ambition, her career, her family, and herself.
Disclaimer: Rupa Wong, MD, is a doctor, but she is not your doctor. This content is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
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