Australian regulator TGA warns of ‘rare but severe’ eye disorder linked to GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic
Summary
Australia’s medicine regulator, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), has warned that some diabetes and obesity drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro may cause a rare but serious eye disorder that could lead to blindness. Patients using these drugs are advised to see a doctor immediately if they experience sudden vision loss, but the TGA does not recommend stopping the medication without medical advice.Key Facts
- The TGA linked 36 cases of a rare eye disorder called non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION) to drugs including Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Saxenda.
- NAION may cause permanent vision loss, and there is no proven treatment to improve sight once it occurs.
- The TGA updated drug information to warn patients about the risk and advised urgent medical care if they experience sudden vision problems.
- The regulator does not advise patients to stop using these drugs without consulting a doctor, nor have they restricted prescriptions.
- A medical expert emphasized that NAION is very rare and that the drugs help prevent serious conditions like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.
- The TGA began investigating the link after a study published in 2024 and reviewed evidence with an advisory committee.
- Ozempic and Wegovy accounted for 23 of the eye disorder cases, Mounjaro for 10, and Saxenda for 3; no cases were reported with Trulicity’s active ingredient.
- These medicines are seen as important tools in managing diabetes and obesity despite the rare eye risk.
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