Wegovy linked to rare “eye stroke” that can cause sudden blindness
Get the Health newsletter
Daily health & science — research, biotech, public health, the studies worth knowing. Free.
- Wegovy showed the strongest association with ischemic optic neuropathy (ION) among semaglutide GLP‑1 drugs, with a statistical signal nearly five times stronger than Ozempic.
- FAERS database contained over 30.6 million adverse event reports (Dec 2017–Dec 2024), of which 31,774 involved semaglutide medications.
- Wegovy had 28 ION reports, corresponding to odds 75 times higher than expected; Ozempic had 47 reports with odds 19 times higher.
- Rybelsus had zero ION reports in the same analysis.
- Wegovy showed the highest ION signal in men, with odds 116 times higher than expected.
Why it matters: Patients using Wegovy face unexpected vision loss, prompting clinicians to monitor eye health and regulators to reassess labeling, while manufacturers see reduced demand and insurers adjust coverage policies.
