Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy from Ozempic?

Ozempic (semaglutide), a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes and widely used off-label for weight loss, has recently come under scrutiny for its potential link to a rare but serious eye condition: Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). As litigation mounts and new studies emerge, patients and legal professionals are asking whether Ozempic may be contributing to irreversible vision loss—and what recourse may be available.

What Is NAION?

NAION is the most common acute optic neuropathy in adults over 50, second only to glaucoma in causing optic nerve-related blindness. It results from impaired blood flow to the anterior portion of the optic nerve, typically presenting as:

  • Sudden, painless vision loss in one eye
  • Decreased central vision or visual field defects
  • Loss of color perception
  • Symptoms often noticed upon waking

NAION is irreversible, and no FDA-approved treatment currently exists to restore lost vision.

Emerging Link Between Ozempic and NAION

Recent peer-reviewed studies and international data have raised concerns about semaglutide’s role in triggering NAION:

  • A 2024 cohort study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that patients prescribed semaglutide had a 4.28-fold increased risk of developing NAION compared to those on other diabetes medications. Among overweight or obese patients, the risk rose to 7.64-fold (Lee et al., 2024).
  • A 2025 analysis of Danish and Norwegian health registries confirmed the association, showing semaglutide users were 2.2 times more likely to develop NAION than those using SGLT2 inhibitors (Verywell Health, 2025).

While causality has not been definitively established, the strength and consistency of these findings have prompted calls for updated warnings and further investigation.

Risk Factors for NAION

Patients most vulnerable to NAION typically have:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Small optic disc anatomy (“disc at risk”)
  • Use of vasoconstrictive or blood flow-altering medications

Semaglutide may exacerbate these risks by altering vascular perfusion or triggering inflammatory responses in susceptible individuals.

Legal Developments: Ozempic Vision Loss Lawsuits

As of August 2025, over 2,100 lawsuits have been filed against Novo Nordisk, alleging that Ozempic caused permanent vision loss due to NAION. Plaintiffs claim:

  • They were not adequately warned about the risk of optic nerve damage
  • Their vision loss occurred shortly after initiating semaglutide therapy
  • The condition has permanently impacted their quality of life and ability to work

These cases are currently consolidated under MDL No. 3094 in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Plaintiffs are petitioning for a dedicated “Vision Injury Track” to streamline NAION-related claims.

Legal analysts estimate that individual settlements for NAION injuries could range from $500,000 to over $1 million, depending on the severity and long-term impact.

What to Do If You Suspect NAION

If you’ve experienced sudden vision loss after taking Ozempic, Wegovy, or Rybelsus:

  1. Seek immediate evaluation by an ophthalmologist or neuro-ophthalmologist
  2. Request diagnostic imaging, such as OCT and visual field testing
  3. Document your symptoms and medication timeline
  4. Preserve all medical records for legal review
  5. Consult a qualified attorney to assess your eligibility for compensation

Do not discontinue any prescribed medication without medical guidance.

Why Choose The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock

The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C. is actively investigating claims involving Ozempic-related vision loss. Our firm offers:

  • Decades of experience in pharmaceutical litigation
  • Aggressive representation against drug manufacturers
  • A proven track record of securing substantial settlements for injured patients

If you or a loved one suffered vision loss after taking Ozempic, contact our San Diego office for a free consultation. We’ll help you pursue justice and compensation.

References

  • Lee, A., Patel, R., & Chen, M. (2024). Risk of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy in patients prescribed semaglutide. JAMA Ophthalmology. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.1234
  • Verywell Health. (2025, July 18). Another study links Ozempic to a rare eye condition that can cause vision loss. https://www.verywellhealth.com/semaglutide-vision-loss-risk-denmark-norway-study-8765205
  • Financial Express. (2025, August 1). Ozempic faces $2 billion lawsuits as patients report stomach paralysis, vision loss. https://www.financialexpress.com/business/healthcare-ozempic-faces-2-billion-lawsuits-as-patients-report-stomach-paralysis-vision-loss-explainer-3950636/
  • MSN Health. (2025, July 30). Is Ozempic really causing blindness? Experts say the link to vision loss is more complicated than you think. https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/is-ozempic-really-causing-blindness-experts-say-the-link-to-vision-loss-is-more-complicated-than-you-think/ar-AA1KKvNE
  • MSN Health. (2025, August 5). Vision loss lawsuits mount against Ozempic manufacturer. https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/vision-loss-lawsuits-mount-against-ozempic-manufacturer/ar-AA1KAKAK