What is the main risk associated with the Wegovy weight loss jab?

The main risk associated with the Wegovy weight loss jab is a potential for permanent vision loss due to a condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), an 'eye stroke'.

What should patients do if they experience vision changes while taking Wegovy?

Patients taking Wegovy who notice a sudden impairment or rapid worsening of vision in one or both eyes should urgently attend eye casualty or A&E.

Are there any treatments for NAION linked to weight loss drugs?

Currently, there are no specific treatments available for NAION, the 'eye stroke' condition linked to weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro.

Home / Health / Weight Loss Jab's Hidden Danger: Vision Loss Risk

Weight Loss Jab's Hidden Danger: Vision Loss Risk

5 Feb

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Summary

Weight loss jab Wegovy linked to potential permanent vision loss.
UK health officials urge immediate medical attention for vision changes.
Rare 'eye stroke' complication linked to semaglutide and tirzepatide.

Weight Loss Jab's Hidden Danger: Vision Loss Risk

UK health officials have alerted the public to a potential risk of permanent vision loss associated with the popular weight loss jab, Wegovy. The complication, identified as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), is an 'eye stroke' resulting from blocked arteries supplying the eye. This condition was first reported in 2024, and while experts have debated its frequency, UK health authorities now acknowledge the risk.

Patients prescribed semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic, are strongly advised by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to seek urgent eye care if they notice sudden or rapid vision impairment in one or both eyes. Healthcare professionals are also being reminded to remain vigilant for these symptoms, especially as privately prescribed medications may not always appear on medical records.

The MHRA has updated its guidance, and Wegovy prescriptions will now include a safety warning about this risk. Since semaglutide's UK authorization in 2018, three suspected reports of NAION have been noted out of approximately 10.2 million prescriptions over the past five years. The agency is also reviewing Mounjaro for similar risks.