SAN ANTONIO — Many of us have either looked into or actually taken one of the popular weight loss drugs that have exploded into the medication market. But in this Verify, we find out why experts say rumors about one medication needs to be put to rest. We all know that there are side effects with most medications. But one rumor about Ozempic is getting serious traction online. So let's Verify.
THE QUESTION
It is true that the diabetes and weight loss drug, Ozempic, can cause blindness?
THE SOURCES
- Dr. Carolina Solis-Herrera, the Chief of the Endocrinology Division at UT Health San Antonio
- Ophthalmologist Dr. Bavand Youssefzadeh with The LASIK Vision Institute
THE ANSWER
FALSE
WHAT WE FOUND
Dr. Solis-Herrera says there have been cases where people experience diabetic retinopathy, or diabetes related vision loss, but it is only temporary. "We have seen it in other studies in the past, that if you drop the sugar abruptly, you might temporarily progress retinopathy. So, no, semaglutide does not cause blindness," she said.
In a statement Dr. Bavand Youssefzadeh said, "Any medication you take has an increased risk of side effects. Patients who take these medications already have diabetes or overweight, so they're already at an increased risk for eye disease."
So no, it is not true. The diabetes weight loss drug, Ozempic, does not cause blindness.
Dr. Solis-Herrera also said if you experience any kind of abdominal pain, cramps or vomiting, to contact your doctor right away.
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