Rare Eye Condition Linked to Semaglutide

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has concluded that semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist used for treating diabetes, obesity, and overweight, may cause a rare but potentially blinding condition known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Following a review of available data, the EMA's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee determined that semaglutide increases the risk of NAION, a condition that can lead to sudden vision loss.
The agency has recommended updating product information to include NAION as a "very rare" side effect, affecting up to one in 10,000 people. Patients experiencing sudden vision loss or rapid worsening of eyesight during treatment should contact their doctor immediately. If NAION is confirmed, semaglutide treatment should be discontinued.
Studies have shown that diabetes patients taking semaglutide face more than a fourfold higher risk of NAION compared to those not on a GLP-1 agonist over three years. The risk is even higher for those prescribed semaglutide for overweight or obesity, with a sevenfold increased risk. The EMA cited several large studies suggesting a twofold increase in NAION risk for patients with type 2 diabetes using semaglutide.
While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not issued a warning, it is actively monitoring adverse event reports. A recent study using FDA data found a disproportionately higher rate of NAION among semaglutide users compared to other GLP-1 agonists.

Published: 6/6/2025