0
0
A recent study has raised concerns about a potential association between the popular type 2 diabetes medication semaglutide and an increased risk of a rare eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). While the absolute risk remains low, the research indicates a nearly threefold higher risk compared to another class of diabetes drugs, SGLT-2 inhibitors.
The study, published on the preprint server medRxiv, analyzed health records from a large cohort of individuals in Denmark and Norway. Researchers examined data from 44,517 semaglutide users in Denmark and 16,860 in Norway, comparing their rates of NAION to those of individuals using SGLT-2 inhibitors.
NAION is a serious condition that can lead to sudden vision loss due to disrupted blood flow to the optic nerve. The study found that semaglutide users had higher unadjusted incidence rates of NAION. In Denmark, the rate was 2.19 per 10,000 person-years, and in Norway, it was 2.90. This compared to 1.18 and 0.92 per 10,000 person-years among SGLT-2i users in Denmark and Norway, respectively.
After adjusting for factors that could influence the results, the researchers calculated a pooled hazard ratio (HR) of 2.81 for semaglutide users. This indicates a nearly threefold increased risk of NAION compared to those using SGLT-2 inhibitors. Notably, the association was more pronounced in Norway, with an HR of 7.25, compared to 2.17 in Denmark. A supplementary analysis and a post hoc per-protocol analysis further supported these findings, yielding an HR of 6.35.
Despite these findings, the study authors emphasized that the absolute risk of NAION remains low. However, they stressed the need for further research to better understand the potential adverse effects of semaglutide on eye health.
“While the increased relative risk is concerning, it’s crucial to remember that the actual risk of developing NAION remains small,” stated a researcher associated with the study. “However, these findings warrant further investigation to ensure patient safety.”
The study highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and research to fully understand the potential risks and benefits of semaglutide and other GLP-1 receptor agonists. Patients using semaglutide who experience any changes in vision should consult their healthcare provider immediately.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a pre-print study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed. Therefore, the findings should be interpreted with caution. Further research is needed to confirm these results and to fully understand the potential link between semaglutide and NAION. This information should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider1 before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
