Retina Department of Zamindar Microsurgical Eye Centre

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What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a medication used to:

• Control blood sugar in diabetes

• Support weight loss

It works by helping the body regulate glucose levels more effectively. Because it changes how quickly blood sugar improves, some people may notice temporary changes in their vision — especially during the first few months of treatment.

 

How does Semaglutide Affect Vision?

When blood sugar levels change rapidly, the natural lens inside the eye can temporarily change shape.

This affects how light focuses on the retina and may cause blurred or fluctuating vision — similar to a camera lens going out of focus.

These changes usually improve once blood sugar stabilizes.

 

Common Temporary Vision Changes

Many visual symptoms are mild and temporary, especially during the early stages of treatment.

Blurred Vision

This is the most common symptom.

Rapid improvement in blood sugar can cause temporary swelling or change shape of the eye’s lens. Vision may go in and out of focus.

This usually settles within 3–4 months as glucose levels stabilize.

Older adults may notice this more because the eye’s lens becomes less flexible with age.

 

Light Sensitivity and Glare

Some people notice:

• Discomfort in bright light

• Increased glare from headlights

• Difficulty driving at night

These symptoms often improve as the body adjusts to the medication.

 

Changes in Colour Perception

A small number of people report:

• Colours appearing less vivid

• Difficulty distinguishing colours in dim light

This is usually temporary and improves over time.

 

 

Eye Strain During Daily Activities

Fluctuating vision can make activities like reading, computer work, or using mobile devices more tiring.

 

Helpful tip — The 20-20-20 rule:
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

 

Effects on Existing Diabetic Eye Disease

If you already have diabetic retinopathy or other eye problems, rapid improvement in blood sugar may temporarily affect the eye’s blood vessels.

This is sometimes called early worsening and usually improves with monitoring.

Regular eye examinations are important during this period.

 

 

 

 

Rare but Serious Eye Risk

Some studies suggest a possible association between semaglutide and a rare eye condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).

This occurs when blood flow to the optic nerve is reduced and can cause sudden vision loss.

Important points:

• This condition is very rare (estimated up to about 1 in 10,000 users)

• People with diabetes already have a higher risk even without medication

• Current evidence does NOT recommend stopping semaglutide routinely because of this risk

Always discuss concerns with your doctor before stopping medication.

 

 

 

 

Who May Be at Higher Risk of Eye Problems?

You may need closer monitoring if you have:

• Diabetic retinopathy

• Other eye diseases (macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal problems)

• High blood pressure

• Older age

• Previous optic nerve problems

 

 

How to Protect Your Vision While Taking Semaglutide

Have a Complete Eye Examination Before Starting Treatment

This provides a baseline for comparison if changes occur.

 

 

Schedule Regular Eye Check-ups

Most people need yearly eye exams.

If you have diabetic eye disease, your doctor may recommend exams every 3–6 months during the first year.

 

 

 

 

Keep Blood Sugar Stable

Avoid very rapid drops in blood glucose when possible. Gradual control is safer for the eyes.

 

Maintain Overall Health

• Control blood pressure

• Manage chronic conditions

• Avoid smoking

These steps help protect eye circulation and nerve health.

 

Inform All Your Doctors

Make sure your eye doctor and treating physician both know you are taking semaglutide.

 

When Should You Seek Urgent Eye Care?

Contact your doctor immediately if you notice:

• Sudden vision loss

• New floaters or flashing lights

• Shadow or curtain in vision

• Severe or persistent blurred vision

• Eye pain or redness

Prompt treatment can prevent serious vision damage.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are vision changes permanent?
Most vision changes are temporary and improve as blood sugar stabilizes.

Should I stop semaglutide if my vision becomes blurry?
Do not stop medication without medical advice. Many symptoms are temporary and expected during adjustment.

Can semaglutide cause blindness?
Serious vision loss is very rare. However, sudden vision changes should always be evaluated urgently.

 

 

Key Message

Semaglutide is an effective treatment for diabetes and weight management. Some temporary visual changes can occur, especially during early treatment. Regular eye examinations and prompt reporting of symptoms help protect your vision.

 

If you notice any change in your vision, contact your eye care provider promptly.