Study Warns Weight-Loss Drug Wegovy May Carry Higher Risk of Sudden Vision Loss

A new analysis suggests that the weight-loss injection Wegovy may carry a higher potential risk of sudden vision loss compared with similar drugs such as Ozempic.

The findings, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, examined health risks linked to doses of the active ingredient **semaglutide**. Wegovy, Ozempic and Rybelsus—all manufactured by Novo Nordisk—contain the same active compound but are prescribed in different doses and for different medical purposes.

Wegovy is approved by the National Health Service (NHS) for weight loss and is typically given in higher doses. By contrast, Ozempic and Rybelsus—an oral tablet—are usually prescribed in lower doses for patients with Type 2 Diabetes.

Researchers analyzed the possible link between semaglutide and Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (ION), a condition often referred to as an “eye stroke.” The disease occurs when reduced blood flow to the optic nerve causes sudden damage to vision, which may sometimes lead to permanent sight loss.

For the study, scientists reviewed reports submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System between **December 2017 and December 2024**.

More than **30 million** side-effect reports were analyzed, of which **31,774 cases** were linked to semaglutide.

The study also found that men may be nearly **three times more likely** than women to develop the eye-stroke condition associated with the drug.