Concerns and Legal Actions Arise Over GLP-1 Drugs and Vision Loss

Todd Engel operated heavy machinery for decades. In early 2023, he began using Ozempic, a GLP-1 drug, for diabetes. On New Year’s Eve, he woke to find his right eye had gone dark. His doctor diagnosed non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a condition caused by tiny strokes blocking blood flow to the eye.

The doctor initially dismissed any link between Engel’s blindness and Ozempic. However, seven months later, JAMA Ophthalmology published research indicating a higher NAION rate among diabetic patients using Ozempic.

Engel continued using the drug until his left eye also went blind. His experience illustrates growing concerns about GLP-1 drugs, known for weight loss benefits, alongside substantial side effects. Engel has filed a lawsuit against Ozempic’s maker, Novo Nordisk, claiming a failure to warn patients.

Novodis Nordisk counters that recent research does not support claims of NAION caused by their drug. The courts face the challenge of establishing causation beyond correlation shown in observational data.

“This is not the type of study that can show the treatment caused NAION,” said the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Meanwhile, databases like the one maintained by the FDA show over 1,000 optic neuropathy cases linked to GLP-1 drugs, albeit voluntarily reported and unverified.

FDA’s study aims to further assess NAION risks and consider regulatory action. More than 4,000 plaintiffs, including Engel, allege life-altering harm from GLP-1 drugs in ongoing lawsuits.

Amid these challenges, attorney Jonathan Orent emphasizes the need for updated warnings in the U.S., similar to those in Europe, to ensure patient protection.

Spokespeople for Eli Lilly, maker of GLP-1 drug brands Mounjaro and Zepbound, vow to defend against claims. The FDA adverse events analysis reveals 1,928 pancreatitis reports since 2024.

Due to the complexities of diabetes and obesity, Dr. Mohammed Ali at Emory University hesitated to report adverse events from GLP-1s, citing uncertainty about causation.

Internet sales often lack medical oversight, says Robert Miller of West Texas Poison Control Center. This adds to reporting challenges, with increased inquiries related to GLP-1 side effects.

The Engels are among plaintiffs seeking damages, but also want better warnings to prevent future harm. “This could have been prevented, if we only knew,” says Shelley Engel, reflecting on the profound impact on her husband’s life.