GLP-1 Drugs and its Raising Popularity
Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonists are analogs of a hormone that controls blood sugar levels and appetite. This drug was originally developed for diabetes management, which started to gain popularity for its weight loss results due to the appetite-regulating effects. The drug received massive success in the United States and created huge sales expansion. However, when their use is not restricted to the original diabetes patient groups and the significant rise in prescriptions for weight loss[1], reports significant side effects, which have raised medical and legal concerns.
The Core Allegations: NAION and Blindness
Non-arteritis anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is associated with the decrease in or blockage of blood flow to the optic nerve, resulting in abrupt and usually irreversible vision impairment of one or both eyes[1]. Recent research indicates a connection to a rare eye condition also known as Ozempic blindness, sparking a federal multi district litigation (MDL)addressing claims related to non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), which can result in vision loss.
The Multi District Litigation
On December 15, 2025, the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multi district Litigation (MDL) approved the consolidation of federal cases alleging blindness and severe sight damage from GLP-1 drugs into a single MDL titled IN “RE: Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs) Non-Arthritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy Products Liability Litigation (Case No. 3163)[1]“. Plaintifs claimed that they developed NAION following their use of Ozempic or other GLP-1 medications, and that the companies that produce these drugs did not sufficiently inform patients and physicians of the risk.
Insight on the Litigation Matter
Plaintiffs in the litigation argued:
- The manufacturers knew about the possible vision loss risks associated with GLP-1 drugs.
- Warnings to health care providers and patients were inadequate or entirely missing.
- Clinical trials and safety data did not sufficiently reveal the risk of NAION.
- Better labelling and risk communication could have prevented injuries.
The Effect of this to Patients and Prescribers
Establishing a special Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) for claims of vision loss related to medications like Ozempic suggests that the court acknowledges the potential common factual issues. The lawsuit highlighted the importance of awareness of possible side effects and the necessity for patients to report any visual symptoms to healthcare providers immediately. Medical health providers are urged to closely monitor patients, especially those at higher risk for eye condition, and consider alternative treatment options.
Legal Battle Strategy
During the MDL discovery both parties will exchange evidence concerning clinical trials, post-marketing surveillance, labelling decisions, and expert opinions regarding the causal relationship between GLP-1 medications and conditions like NAION and blindness. It is important to consult with a professional legal expert to learn more and get an in-depth understanding.
Sources:
Drugwatch. “Ozempic Vision Loss Lawsuits to Be Consolidated in Novo Nordisk’s Home State.” Drugwatch, 2025.
Health Exec. “Over a Dozen Lawsuits Claim Ozempic and Wegovy Caused Patients to Go Blind.” Health Exec, 2025.
Suresh, J., and K. Vivekanandan.“Blinded by the Drug? A Vigilyze Signal Linking Semaglutide to NAION.” International Ophthalmology 45, no. 1 (2025): 398.
United States Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation.Transfer Order: In re Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs) Non-Arteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy Products Liability Litigation (MDL No. 3163), December 25, 2025
