Overview
- Researchers analyzing 30.7 million FDA adverse‑event reports (Dec 2017–Dec 2024) found a stronger ischemic optic neuropathy signal for high‑dose semaglutide used for weight loss.
- Wegovy was linked to nearly fivefold higher adjusted odds of ischemic optic neuropathy versus Ozempic (aOR 4.74, 95% CI 2.54–8.77), with men showing over threefold higher odds than women (aOR 3.33, 95% CI 1.89–5.88).
- FAERS entries included 3,070 Wegovy reports with 28 ION cases and 20,608 Ozempic reports with 40 cases; no ION was reported with oral semaglutide (Rybelsus), and tirzepatide showed no clear signal.
- UK and European regulators have issued safety communications and updated patient information on non‑arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, advising urgent evaluation for sudden vision changes.
- Novo Nordisk says it has updated EU materials but maintains the data do not establish a causal link and that semaglutide’s benefit–risk profile remains favorable, while experts emphasize FAERS limitations and the need for prospective research.