Does Ozempic cause eye problems? Understanding the risks and vision side effects

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

Clinical studies have documented vision changes in some patients taking Ozempic (semaglutide), with concerns raised about temporary blurred vision, worsened diabetic retinopathy, and a rare, serious condition known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). The question, does Ozempic cause eye problems, requires a nuanced look at the potential side effects and existing risk factors.

Quick Summary

Ozempic can be associated with vision side effects like temporary blurred vision due to blood sugar fluctuations and a transient worsening of pre-existing diabetic retinopathy. Some studies also suggest a link to a rare condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), but the overall risk remains low.

Key Points

Blurred Vision: Ozempic may cause temporary blurred vision in the first few months due to rapid shifts in blood sugar levels, a side effect that typically subsides over time.
Diabetic Retinopathy: There is a documented risk of a transient worsening of pre-existing diabetic retinopathy, a condition common in diabetes patients, when starting Ozempic.
Rare NAION Risk: Studies have linked semaglutide to a rare, serious condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), which can cause sudden, permanent vision loss, though the absolute risk is very low.
Regular Eye Exams: Patients with diabetes, especially those on Ozempic, should have regular eye exams to monitor for any vision changes and manage risks effectively.
Communicate with Doctors: It is crucial to inform your prescribing doctor and ophthalmologist about all medications you are taking and report any sudden or concerning vision changes immediately.
Risk vs. Benefit: The benefits of Ozempic for controlling diabetes and improving cardiovascular health generally outweigh the low risk of serious eye problems for most individuals.

Ozempic, also known by its active ingredient semaglutide, has gained widespread attention for its effectiveness in managing type 2 diabetes and assisting with weight loss. However, like any medication, it carries potential side effects, including some that affect vision. While many users tolerate the medication well, others may experience temporary or, in rare cases, more serious eye-related issues. Understanding these potential risks is crucial for anyone considering or currently taking the medication, especially those with pre-existing eye conditions.

Temporary Blurred Vision and Blood Sugar Changes

One of the most common vision-related side effects reported with Ozempic is temporary blurred vision. This is not a unique reaction to semaglutide but is often observed when a person's blood sugar levels change rapidly. As Ozempic effectively lowers blood glucose, this fluctuation can cause temporary swelling in the lens of the eye, altering its shape and leading to blurry sight.

Mechanism: The lens of the eye adjusts to focus on objects. When blood sugar levels drop quickly, the delicate fluid balance in the eye changes, causing the lens to swell slightly. This swelling affects its focusing power, resulting in temporary blurred vision.
Duration: This side effect is typically temporary and often resolves within a few months as the body adjusts to the new, more stable blood sugar levels.
Risk factors: Older patients may be more susceptible to this effect as their eye lenses become less flexible with age.

Impact on Diabetic Retinopathy

For patients with pre-existing diabetic retinopathy (DR), a condition where high blood sugar damages retinal blood vessels, Ozempic may cause a transient worsening. This phenomenon is not exclusive to Ozempic and has been observed with other treatments that rapidly improve blood sugar control.

Initial worsening: The rapid improvement in glucose control can disrupt the retina's delicate vascular system, leading to a temporary aggravation of existing DR. Symptoms might include increased floaters, blurred vision, or macular edema (swelling).
Long-term outlook: Several studies suggest that while there may be an initial worsening, long-term glucose control provided by Ozempic can ultimately lead to better eye health outcomes. However, close monitoring by an ophthalmologist is vital for patients with pre-existing DR.
Clinical trials: The SUSTAIN-6 trial noted a higher rate of retinopathy complications in the semaglutide group, warranting a warning on the medication's label. Ongoing large-scale studies, like the FOCUS trial, aim to provide more definitive long-term data.

The Link to Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION)

Some recent research has explored a potential link between GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide and a rare but serious eye condition called NAION. NAION, sometimes referred to as an “eye stroke,” involves the blockage of blood flow to the optic nerve, causing sudden and often permanent vision loss in one eye.

Study findings: A 2024 Mass Eye and Ear-led study found a higher risk of NAION in patients prescribed semaglutide, though the overall incidence remains very low. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) concluded NAION is a "very rare" side effect.
Risk factors: People with diabetes and obesity already have an increased risk of NAION, complicating the determination of a direct causal link. The mechanism is not fully understood, but theories include effects on vascular health or blood flow to the optic nerve.
Expert opinion: While acknowledging the association, eye physicians and medical societies stress that more research is needed before drawing definitive conclusions. For most patients, the cardiovascular benefits of Ozempic outweigh this very low risk.

Comparing Ozempic's Ocular Side Effects


Eye Condition	Primary Cause	Typical Onset	Severity	Reversibility	Monitoring Recommended
Blurred Vision	Rapid fluctuations in blood sugar affecting the lens.	Early in treatment (first few months).	Mild to moderate.	Often temporary, resolves as blood sugar stabilizes.	If persistent or severe.
Diabetic Retinopathy	Rapid improvements in blood sugar control.	Early in treatment (first 1-2 years).	Can be temporary worsening of pre-existing condition.	Initial worsening is often transient, followed by long-term improvement with good glucose control.	Crucial, especially with existing DR.
NAION	Blocked blood flow to the optic nerve; mechanism unclear.	Sudden, painless vision loss in one eye.	Severe, can cause permanent vision loss.	Damage is often permanent.	High-risk individuals should consult their doctor.

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams and Communication

Given the potential for eye-related side effects, particularly for those with a history of diabetes or pre-existing eye conditions, consistent monitoring is essential. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that patients on semaglutide undergo regular eye exams. It is critical to inform both your prescribing physician and ophthalmologist that you are taking Ozempic.

Before starting treatment: Patients with pre-existing diabetic retinopathy should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist before beginning Ozempic.
During treatment: Pay close attention to any changes in your vision, such as blurriness, flashes, or floaters.
When to seek immediate help: If you experience sudden vision loss, distorted vision, or a dark shadow in your field of vision, contact your doctor immediately.

Conclusion: Weighing the Benefits and Risks

While the possibility of eye problems linked to Ozempic, including a rare risk of NAION, is a legitimate concern, it must be balanced against the significant health benefits the medication provides. Ozempic offers effective control of blood sugar, aids in weight loss, and provides cardiovascular and renal benefits for many patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. The transient blurred vision and initial worsening of diabetic retinopathy are manageable with proper medical supervision, and the risk of serious conditions like NAION remains very low for the general population. Ongoing research will continue to clarify the exact relationship between semaglutide and eye health. Patients should maintain regular communication with their healthcare team to assess their individual risk profile and make informed decisions about their treatment plan.

For more information on eye health and medication side effects, consult reliable sources such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology at https://www.aao.org/.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the nickname 'Ozempic blindness' exists, Ozempic has only been linked to a very rare eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) that can cause permanent vision loss. Experts state the absolute risk is extremely low, and a direct causal link is still being researched.

Ozempic can cause temporary blurred vision because it effectively lowers blood sugar levels. Rapid fluctuations in blood glucose can temporarily alter the fluid balance in the eye and change the shape of the lens, affecting focus.

Yes, in some patients with pre-existing diabetic retinopathy, Ozempic can cause a temporary worsening of the condition, typically in the first few months to a year of treatment. This effect is often followed by long-term improvement due to better overall glucose control.

Patients with pre-existing diabetic eye disease, such as diabetic retinopathy or other ocular complications, have a higher risk of experiencing adverse eye-related effects. Patients with a history of NAION or other risk factors should also discuss this with their doctor.

You should not stop taking Ozempic without consulting your doctor. If you experience sudden or persistent vision changes, report them to your prescribing doctor and ophthalmologist immediately for evaluation.

Serious vision problems are rare. Temporary blurred vision related to blood sugar shifts is more common but usually subsides within a few months. The risk of rare, severe conditions like NAION is very low.

Signs of a serious eye problem can include sudden and painless loss of vision in one eye, a dark or gray spot in your field of vision, flashes of light, or floaters. You should seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.