Eye Doctors Urge Prompt Care for Vision Loss After Semaglutide
The Korean Ophthalmologists Association advised patients to seek immediate eye care if their vision declines after semaglutide treatment, following a suspected domestic case of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy.
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A suspected case of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, or NAION, was reported in a Korean patient who received Wegovy in December 2024. The case was disclosed during the National Assembly Health and Welfare Committee’s audit of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety on October 13, 2026.
The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety added NAION to the prescribing information for semaglutide medicines on October 7 as a rare adverse reaction. The Korean Ophthalmologists Association subsequently urged patients and clinicians to remain alert and recommended immediate evaluation when vision declines after treatment.
What patients should know
Semaglutide is used in obesity and diabetes medicines including Wegovy and Ozempic. NAION involves damage to the optic nerve caused by impaired blood flow to the nerve.
The society’s practical guidance is symptom-based: anyone who notices reduced vision after receiving semaglutide should obtain immediate medical evaluation.
Limits of the evidence
The domestic signal concerns one suspected case. A suspected case alone does not confirm that semaglutide caused the condition, while the updated prescribing information classifies NAION as a rare adverse reaction. Patients should discuss their symptoms and medication use with a qualified clinician.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my vision declines after semaglutide?
The Korean Ophthalmologists Association recommends seeking immediate medical care. Tell the clinician that you received semaglutide and describe the vision change.
Does one suspected case prove that semaglutide causes NAION?
No. A single suspected case does not confirm causation. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety nevertheless lists NAION as a rare adverse reaction in the prescribing information for semaglutide medicines.
Questions to ask at an eye evaluation
- Could my vision change require evaluation for NAION?
- How should my semaglutide use be considered during this eye evaluation?
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