Ozempic NAION
OpenFILINGCausation
A landmark study from Massachusetts Eye and Ear / Harvard Medical School published in JAMA Ophthalmology (July 2024) found that patients prescribed semaglutide had a significantly higher risk of NAION compared to non-users — with odds ratios ranging from 4.28 (diabetes cohort) to 7.64 (overweight/obesity cohort). NAION occurs when blood flow to the anterior optic nerve is disrupted, causing sudden, painless vision loss that is typically permanent. Plaintiffs' causation theory centers on GLP-1 agonists' hemodynamic effects: rapid weight loss, reduced blood pressure, and potential vasoconstrictive effects on optic nerve microvasculature. The mechanism may involve reduced perfusion pressure to the optic nerve head in susceptible patients.
Defendants
| Entity | Role | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Novo Nordisk | Manufacturer | Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus (semaglutide) — primary defendant |
| Eli Lilly | Manufacturer | Mounjaro, Zepbound (tirzepatide) — named defendant |
Litigation Timeline
Intelligence Signals
Official JPML monthly report. Historical total 278. Judge Karen S. Marston, PAE.
Key Facts
- Status
- active
Geographic Exposure
Eligibility Criteria
- ✓Used Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or other GLP-1 receptor agonist
- ✓Diagnosed with NAION (non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy)
- ✓Experienced sudden vision loss during or after GLP-1 drug use
- ✓No prior history of NAION or optic neuropathy before GLP-1 use