Ozempic can cause vision loss. A new study has shown a link between the drug and eye problems

Weight loss is still a hot topic and drugs such as Ozempic or Mounjaro have gained popularity in Slovakia in recent months. A new study published in JAMA Ophthalmology has highlighted cases of patients who have suffered vision problems, including vision loss, after taking them.

The research, led by experts at the University of Utah, revealed that some users of GLP-1 drugs (GLP-1 is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels) developed three serious eye diseases affecting the optic nerve - an important part of the eye responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain.

As the New York Post reports, scientists cannot yet say for sure whether these drugs directly increase the risk of eye problems. However, they speculate that the rapid change in blood sugar levels caused by these drugs, rather than their direct action, may be the main cause.

Nine patients participated in the study, according to Medical News Today, seven of whom developed NAION (optic nerve stroke), which can lead to irreversible vision loss. One participant had a stroke in the retina that caused permanent vision loss in one eye. A ninth patient had swelling of both optic nerves but did not experience vision loss.

The study's lead author, ophthalmologist Bradley Katz, stressed that the research has not yet shown a clear causal link. Further clinical studies are therefore needed to confirm the hypothesis.

Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro and Zepbound, has not yet responded to the findings. In contrast, a spokesperson for Novo Nordisk, which manufactures Ozempic and Wegovy, has commented and said that patient safety remains a top priority for their company.