2026-02-06 17:02:05
Weight-loss injections used by millions of slimmers have been hit with a fresh safety warning due to fears they could increase the risk of permanent vision loss.
UK health chiefs say drugs containing semaglutide — the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic — may raise the risk of a rare but serious eye condition known as nonarteritic ischemic anterior optic neuropathy (NAION).
NAION, sometimes described as an “eye stroke”, happens when blood flow to the optic nerve is suddenly reduced or blocked.
This deprives the nerve of oxygen and can lead to irreversible vision loss in one eye.
The UK’s medicines watchdog stressed the overall risk remains extremely low.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said cases linked to the injections are “very rare”, but urged patients and doctors to remain vigilant.
Concerns intensified after US researchers last year reported nine cases of patients who developed blindness after taking semaglutide or tirzepatide — the active ingredient in Mounjaro.
Scientists suggested the rapid drop in blood sugar caused by the drugs may damage delicate blood vessels in the eye.
Sudden changes in blood sugar can alter pressure within the eye, causing fluid to leak from retinal vessels. This can trigger swelling and, in severe cases, lasting damage to the optic nerve.
Public attention was further fuelled when singer Robbie Williams revealed he had stopped taking the injections. Speaking last year, he said his eyesight had “been blurry for a while now, and it’s only getting worse”.
The Let Me Entertain You hitmaker told The Sun newspaper: “I don’t believe it’s age – I believe it’s the jabs.”
Discussing the warning, MHRA chief safety officer Dr Alison Cave said: “Patient safety is the MHRA’s top priority and we continually monitor the safety and efficacy of all licensed medicines.
“While the potential risk of NAION for patients prescribed semaglutide is extremely small, it is important that patients and healthcare professionals are alert to the associated symptoms.
“If you, or someone you care for, is taking semaglutide and you notice sudden loss of vision in one eye, then we advise you to urgently attend eye casualty (if available in your area) or A+E and report it via our Yellow Card scheme.”
Visit Bang Bizarre (main website)
