February 10, 2026 l Dalena Reporters
The United Kingdom’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued a safety warning about widely used glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medicines including Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus after regulatory reviews linked these drugs, in very rare cases, to a serious eye condition that can impair vision.
GLP-1 medications were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, and later expanded in some markets to help with weight management because of their effects on appetite and blood sugar. They work by mimicking a natural hormone that stimulates insulin release after eating.
The latest guidance from the MHRA — Britain’s drug safety authority notes that an uncommon condition known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) has been observed in some patients taking semaglutide-based therapies. NAION affects the optic nerve and, in rare instances, can lead to sudden vision changes or loss, typically in one eye, if blood flow to the nerve becomes compromised.
Officials say this possible side effect is very rare, estimated to occur in approximately one in 10,000 people receiving semaglutide medicines, but they emphasise the need for awareness by both patients and healthcare professionals. Anyone experiencing rapid or unexplained vision changes while on these treatments is urged to seek medical attention immediately and report symptoms to their doctor or eye specialist.
The warning does not suggest that the drugs are unsafe for most people — GLP-1 treatments have been widely prescribed and have had a significant impact in managing blood glucose and supporting weight control. However, regulatory agencies have updated product information to reflect these safety findings and ensure that patients and clinicians remain vigilant for potential risks.
Experts stress that many factors, including pre-existing eye health conditions, age and blood-vessel disease, can contribute to changes in vision independently of medication. For that reason, doctors typically weigh the benefits of continued GLP-1 therapy against any emerging concerns on a case-by-case basis.
The alert follows ongoing safety monitoring by health authorities, who regularly review reports of adverse effects after medications are approved and widely used. As the use of medications like Ozempic and Wegovy continues to grow across populations with diabetes and obesity, updated safety labels and guidance help ensure informed decision-making by patients and clinicians alike.