You might lose your eyesight instead of weight; all because of medication?!

In a shocking development, scientists have found that weight loss medications used to treat obesity and diabetes, such as Ozempic and Victoza, may lead to serious vision problems, even blindness! Despite revolutionizing the treatment of obesity and diabetes, recent studies reveal unexpected effects on eye health.

In a study conducted by a research team from the John Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah, it was discovered that nine patients experienced optic nerve damage while using common GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide.

This damage resulted in serious visual problems, including anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, a rare condition that can lead to sudden vision loss.

These findings were surprising, especially after similar cases were observed in previous studies from Denmark, where patients using these medications were found to be four times more likely to develop optic nerve damage compared to others. Despite these alarming indications, the exact scientific cause remains inconclusive.

The recent study showed that the medications may contribute to rapid changes in blood sugar levels, which can affect eye health. Researchers ruled out drug toxicity as the main cause. While the medications have proven beneficial in treating diabetes and obesity, this does not mean they are without risks.

In a statement, Dr. Bradley Katz, a professor of ophthalmology at the University of Utah, said: "We need more studies to understand the relationship between these medications and vision loss, but doctors must carefully monitor patients and communicate better with them about potential risks." He added that these medications may have other health benefits, such as improving heart and kidney health and reducing the risk of cancer.

However, this warning does not mean that patients should abruptly stop taking their medications; instead, they should be cautious and consult their doctors to determine if there is a potential risk to their vision.

It is worth noting that some patients may experience vision loss within a few days of starting treatment, while other visual complications may occur months after treatment.

If you are using these medications, you should be fully aware of their potential risks and discuss them with your doctor. In case of any sudden changes in vision, consult a doctor immediately.