Ozempic Vision Loss Lawsuits
Ward Black Law is actively pursuing cases involving severe vision loss in adults who have taken Ozempic or Wegovy for the treatment of diabetes, weight loss, or other medical conditions. A comprehensive study conducted by Harvard Medical School has suggested a significant association between these medications and the development of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). NAION is a condition that results in severe damage to the optic nerve, leading to substantial vision loss and, in some instances, complete blindness.
If you have experienced vision loss after using semaglutide injections, reach out to us today. We are here to assist you in exploring your legal options and to help you secure the justice and financial compensation you deserve for your injury.
The Dangers of Taking Ozempic or Wegovy
The basis for these lawsuits lies in the fact that individuals were not adequately warned about the potential risk of developing NAION associated with Ozempic or Wegovy. It is alleged that the manufacturer either knew or should have known about this risk. Recent research has underscored these concerns, with findings suggesting a link between semaglutide and NAION. Researchers are calling for more data-driven studies to further investigate this association.
Understanding NAION and Its Impact on Vision
NAION is a debilitating condition resulting from inadequate blood flow to the optic nerve, which serves as the vital connection between the brain and the eye, comprising millions of nerve fibers and blood vessels. Blood flow to the optic nerve can be compromised in two ways: either a blood vessel feeding the optic nerve becomes completely blocked, or the blood flow to one part of the nerve is insufficient. Both scenarios can result in significant vision loss because the optic nerve fails to receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen, ultimately leading to blindness.
Recognizing the Symptoms of NAION
NAION typically manifests without any prior warning. However, most patients notice a loss of vision in one eye when they wake up in the morning. Other symptoms include the presence of a shadow or darkened area in the visual field, which can affect either the upper or lower portions of the vision. Additional symptoms may include a reduction in contrast sensitivity and light sensitivity.
Treatment Options for NAION
Currently, there is no medication available to treat NAION. Depending on the underlying cause, vision loss may either stabilize or progressively worsen over a few weeks. In the worst-case scenario, individuals could experience vision loss in both eyes, leading to total blindness.
Understanding the Use of Semaglutides Ozempic and Wegovy
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), semaglutide is a type of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It mimics a hormone that the gastrointestinal tract releases when food is consumed, prompting the body to produce more insulin, which in turn lowers blood sugar levels. At higher doses, this hormone interacts with brain regions that reduce appetite and signal a feeling of fullness. The FDA has approved three semaglutide medications:
- Ozempic injections are intended to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in patients with type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
- Wegovy injections are designed to aid in weight loss for adults and children over the age of 12 who are obese or have other weight-related conditions.
Reach Out to Ward Black Law for Your Optic Nerve Eye Injury Case
Our attorneys are dedicated to reviewing cases of individuals who have suffered severe vision loss due to the use of Ozempic and Wegovy. We are committed to helping you obtain the financial compensation you deserve for your injury. At Ward Black Law, our team of experienced defective drug and medical device attorneys is prepared to take on large corporations nationwide. We will guide you through your legal options, provide expert advice, and help you seek compensation for the pain and suffering caused by your vision loss.
The attorneys at Ward Black Law strongly encourage you to contact us if you have used Ozempic or Wegovy at any time since January 2018 and were subsequently diagnosed with NAION. You may have grounds for a successful lawsuit if you were diagnosed with this serious condition within one year of receiving at least one dose of either medication. To discuss your case, please fill out our contact form or call us at 336.333.2244 for more information.