Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic and Rybelsus): risk of Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION)
The MHRA has published a drug safety update that NAION has been very rarely reported in association with semaglutide.
Published: 5 February 2026
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has published a drug safety update. Non-arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION), a condition that can cause sudden deterioration in vision, usually in one eye at a time, has been very rarely reported in association with semaglutide in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, weight management and cardiovascular risk reduction.
Patients reporting a sudden loss of vision (including partial loss) while on semaglutide treatment should be urgently referred for ophthalmological examination.
Further information, advice and actions for healthcare professionals can be found in the Drug Safety Update.