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Written By: Robert King, Esq.
Legal Review By: Daniel Nigh, Esq.
The Rybelsus Vision Loss Lawsuit is an active lawsuit
See If You Qualify

Rybelsus, an oral semaglutide prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes but commonly used for weight loss, has been linked to severe vision side effects, including blurry vision, vision loss, and blindness. Some patients have been diagnosed with Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION), which may lead to sudden, painless vision loss in one eye. Individuals suffering these or other injuries may be able to take legal action. Litigation against the manufacturer of Rybelsus, Novo Nordisk, remains ongoing with lawsuits continuing to be filed across the country. 

Rybelsus Lawsuit Overview

New lawsuits against Rybelsus manufacturer Novo Nordisk allege that the drug company knew about the risk of severe side effects and failed to warn consumers. Original labels for the medication lacked warnings of many side effects that have been reported by patients. Rybelsus patients have now reported an increase in diagnosis of serious eye injuries such as Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). These injuries can have a substantial impact on a person’s mental, physical, and financial health. 

Individuals who have been taking Rybelsus and subsequently experienced blurry vision, blindness, or received a diagnosis for NAION are encouraged to contact King Law to schedule a free consultation. King Law attorneys are well-versed in Rybelsus litigation and will work to get you the compensation you deserve.

Rybelsus and Vision Problems – 2024 Update

July 2024: A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found an increased risk of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION) for patients taking semaglutide such as Rybelsus. The cohort study of over 16,000 patients found that patients taking semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), who had type 2 diabetes or were overweight, had an increased risk of NAION and other vision problems.

About the Rybelsus Vision Loss Lawsuit:

What Are the Vision Problems Associated With Rybelsus?

A new JAMA study led by researchers from Mass Eye and Ear found that people taking semaglutide, such as Rybelsus, may be at risk for a severe eye condition known as Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). The condition is caused by decreased blood supply to the optic nerve and may cause sudden, irreversible vision loss. 

NAION is a relatively rare eye condition that is characterized by a reduction of blood supply to the optic nerve. The restriction of blood supply to the optic nerve can lead to sudden, permanent vision loss. It is frequently referred to as a “stroke of the optic nerve.” 

The optic nerve is a bundle of fibers that connects the eye to the brain, enabling vision. Any reduction or blockage to blood flow to the nerve can cause vision loss. NAION is the second most common form of optic nerve damage, with an estimated annual incidence rate in the U.S. of between 2.3 and 10.2 per 100,000 people over 50 years of age.

This infographic explains the main vision issue associated with Rybelsus, describes Rybelsus's use, and lists other eye problems that may occur while taking Rybelsus. Image of a rybelsus bottle.

Can Rybelsus Cause Vision Problems?

New research suggests that patients taking a semaglutide, such as Rybelsus, may be at a higher risk of developing severe vision problems, including Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). Individuals taking the drug who experience any vision-related symptoms are strongly encouraged to seek medical attention and consult with an attorney. 

How Rybelsus may affect a person’s vision:

  • Diabetic retinopathy: Patients with diabetes are at an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy. While semaglutide, such as Rybelsus, is not yet directly linked to this condition, the drug’s role in managing diabetes may impact a person’s risk. 
  • Fluctuating blood sugar levels: Rybelsus helps regulate blood sugar levels, but significant fluctuations, if not well-controlled, can lead to diabetic retinopathy. If blood sugar levels get too high, damage to blood vessels in the retina may occur, potentially leading to vision problems and blindness if left untreated. 
  • Hypoglycemia: Rybelsus may cause hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. If blood sugar drops too low, it can result in blurred vision. However, vision problems caused by low blood sugar generally resolve once levels are normalized.
  • Severe allergic reactions or adverse effects: In rare cases, some patients may experience allergic reactions or adverse effects from taking Rybelsus. These reactions could potentially impact vision. 
  • Interactions with other medications: Some medications, in combination with Rybelsus, may contribute to vision problems. Diabetic patients frequently must take multiple medications to manage their condition and should monitor potential interactions. 

It is imperative for Rybelsus patients experiencing any vision problems to consult with a healthcare provider. Routine eye exams and blood sugar monitoring can help manage and prevent vision-related issues, including NAION.

Rybelsus Vision Problems and Eye Side Effects

Patients taking Rybelsus may be at an increased risk of severe side effects, including sudden and painless vision loss caused by NAION. In addition to NAION, Rybelsus patients may experience temporary blurry vision due to fluctuating blood sugar levels, an increased risk of infection, and the potential for severe allergic reactions.

Potential vision problems that may be linked to Rybelsus:

  • Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION): One of the most concerning conditions that may be linked to Rybelsus use includes NAION. NAION is marked by sudden, painless vision loss in one eye. This results from reduced blood flow to the optic nerve. 
  • Blurred vision: Fluctuations in blood sugar levels may result in blurry vision caused by changes in the lens of the eye.
  • Diabetic retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy may result in damage to the blood vessels in the retina. This can cause vision loss and is frequently the impact of poorly managed diabetes. While Rybelsus has not been directly linked to this condition, its role in managing diabetes may play a part.
  • Increased risk of eye infections: Diabetic patients may be at a higher risk of infection, including eye infections. Symptoms may include redness, pain, and vision changes. 
  • Hypoglycemia-related vision issues: Rybelsus patients may experience temporary vision problems, such as blurred vision, related to low blood sugar levels. Symptoms caused by hypoglycemia, however, generally resolve once blood sugar levels normalize.
  • Potential allergic reactions: While rare, some patients may experience a severe allergic reaction marked by swelling or itching around the eyes. 

Individuals taking Rybelsus are strongly encouraged to engage in regular eye examinations, particularly those with a history of eye issues. Routine monitoring for vision problems and blood sugar management are essential to maintaining eye health and minimizing the risk of eye-related side effects. 

Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION)

Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy is a serious eye condition that may result in sudden vision loss. It is characterized by reduced blood flow to the optic nerve. Risk factors include age and conditions such as diabetes. Patients who experience vision problems may be eligible to file a Rybelsus lawsuit against the manufacturer Novo Nordisk. 

NAION is defined as the reduction or loss of blood flow to the optic nerve. The optic nerve, which transmits visual information from the eye to the brain, becomes damaged as a result of the reduced blood flow. The disruption can cause sudden, painless vision loss, which usually occurs without warning and affects one eye. Risk factors for NAION include age (being over the age of 50), diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, and anatomical predispositions such as a small cup-to-disc ratio. 

Symptoms of NAION include:

  • Sudden vision loss: Ranging from mild to severe vision loss in one eye.
  • Visual field defects: Occurs when there are missing portions of vision.
  • Disc swelling: Typically visible upon an examination of the eye.

A new study published in JAMA has found a link between the use of semaglutide (such as Rybelsus) and NAION. While more research is needed to determine the cause of the link, it is believed that factors such as blood pressure and blood sugar fluctuations, which Rybelsus helps to manage, may be part of the problem. Other factors may include diabetes-related vascular issues, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and an increased potential for side effects and interactions with other medications being taken to manage diabetes. 

Individuals taking Rybelsus or another semaglutide who experience vision problems are encouraged to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. While Rybelsus is not directly known to cause NAION, its effects on blood sugar and potential impacts on vascular health in diabetic patients may contribute to an increased risk.

This infographic describes NAION, lists the symptoms of NAION, and lists the risk factors of NAION. Image close up of a pair of eyes open looking at camera.

Eye Floaters

Individuals taking Rybelsus may be at increased risk for developing eye floaters or myodesopsias. Eye floaters are characterized by small, dark, shadowy shapes in the field of vision. They can appear as dots, lines, cobwebs, or other shapes and are most noticeable against bright, plain backgrounds such as a clear sky or white wall.

Causes of eye floaters:

  • Age: As a person ages, the jelly-like substance inside the eyes can shrink and become more liquid. These changes can lead to clumps or strands that cast shadows on the retina, resulting in floaters or myodesopsias.
  • Eye inflammation: An inflammation of the middle layer of the eye (uvea) may cause floaters. 
  • Bleeding in the eye: Bleeding in the vitreous (the clear, gel-like substance located in the eye) caused by diabetes, hypertension, or injury can lead to floaters.
  • Torn retina: Retinal tears or detachment can also present as eye floaters.
  • Eye medications: Certain eye medications injected into the vitreous may lead to floaters.

It is believed that Rybelsus’s effect on blood sugar levels and diabetes management may increase a person’s risk for developing eye floaters. Additionally, poorly controlled diabetes may lead to diabetic retinopathy, damaging retinal blood vessels and leading to floaters. Other factors, such as the drug’s tendency to cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), interactions with other medications, and potential for severe side effects, may also result in an increased risk of the condition. 

Dry Eyes

Another condition that may be associated with the use of semaglutide, including Rybelsus, is dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome or keratoconjunctivitis sicca is defined by the eyes failing to produce enough tears to properly lubricate or when tears that are produced evaporate too quickly. This phenomenon can lead to inflammation, potentially damaging the eye’s surface. 

Symptoms of dry eye syndrome:

  • Sensitivity to light
  • Redness of the eyes
  • The sensation of a foreign body in the eyes
  • Trouble wearing contact lenses or driving at night
  • Irritated, watery eyes
  • Blurred vision
  • Eye fatigue
  • Stinging or burning in the eyes
  • A scratchy sensation in the eyes
  • Stringy mucus in or around the eyes

Cases of dry eye syndrome include age, medical conditions, medications, environmental conditions, infrequent blinking, and eyelid problems. Individuals may also have an imbalance in tear composition resulting in dry eyes. 

Another potential factor in dry eye syndrome may be taking a semaglutide such as Rybelsus. While additional research is needed, it is believed that the role Rybelsus plays in managing blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes may play a part. While the condition is not a commonly listed side effect, it may be linked indirectly due to the drug’s tendency to cause dehydration, fluctuations in blood sugar levels, risk of inflammation, and systemic effects on fluid balance.

Eye Twitching

Rybelsus patients should be aware of the potential for an increased risk of eye twitching. Eye twitching, also known as eyelid twitching or myokymia, is marked by a repetitive, involuntary spasm of the eyelid muscles. It generally affects the upper lid but may occur in the lower lid as well. While typically harmless, it can be annoying and disruptive. 

Symptoms of Eye Twitching:

  • Involuntary, repetitive spasms of the eyelid.
  • Typically affects one eye but can occur in both.
  • Lasts for a few seconds to a minute and can recur over a period of days or weeks.
  • Usually not painful, but can be bothersome.

Causes of eye twitching may include increased stress levels, lack of sleep or general fatigue, excessive caffeine intake, eye strain, dry eyes, nutritional imbalances, or allergies. While it is unclear whether there is a direct link between Rybelsus and eye twitching, patients may be at an increased risk due to the drug’s potential to cause electrolyte imbalances caused by gastrointestinal side effects, dehydration, blood sugar fluctuations, stress, fatigue, and medication interactions. 

Additional Vision Problems From Rybelsus

In addition to the eye conditions listed above, other reported vision problems from Rybelsus users include blurred vision, diabetic retinopathy, and macular edema. Individuals experiencing these or other vision issues are encouraged to seek medical attention and consult with an attorney.

Vision problems reported by Rybelsus users:

  • Blurred vision: Generally occurs as a result of blood sugar fluctuations, which can affect the shape of the lens and cause temporary vision changes.
  • Diabetic retinopathy: The condition is a common complication of diabetes where high blood sugar levels damage blood vessels around the retina.
  • Macular edema: marked by swelling in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. Poorly controlled diabetes can cause fluid to leak into the macula. 
  • Allergic reactions:  While rare, an allergic reaction to Rybelsus can cause redness, swelling, itching, and tearing in the eyes. 
  • Visual disturbances: Blood sugar fluctuations, blood pressure changes, and other systemic effects of Rybelsus may cause changes in color perception, flashes of light, or other usual visual phenomena.
  • Ocular migraines: Potentially triggered by stress, hormonal changes, or medications affecting blood vessels, Rybelsus patients may experience migraines involving visual disturbances such as flashing lights, zigzag patterns, or temporary vision loss.
  • Conjunctivitis: Inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. While not directly linked to Rybelsus, changes in immune function or systemic health while on the medication could increase susceptibility to infections or inflammation.

A new JAMA study published on July 3, 2024, links the use of semaglutide such as Rybelsus to an increased risk of serious eye conditions such as Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). The retrospective matched cohort study of over 16,000 patients from 2017 to 2023 found that the use of the drug may be linked to vision problems such as blurry vision, vision loss, and blindness. 

Researchers asked the question of whether semaglutide was associated with an increased risk of NAION in type 2 diabetes or overweight/obese patients. According to their findings, there was a higher risk of the condition in patients prescribed semaglutide compared to those on non-GLP-1 RA medications, warranting further study to assess causality. 

Results of the study:

  • Type 2 diabetes group: Out of 710 patients, 194 were on semaglutide, and 516 were taking non-GLP-1 RA medications. There were 17 incidences of NAION in the semaglutide group vs. 6 in the non-GLP-1 RA group. The cumulative incidence was 8.9% for semaglutide, compared to 1.8% for non-GLP-1 RA over 36 months.
  • Overweight/Obese group: Out of 979 patients, 361 were on semaglutide, and 618 were on non-GLP-1 RA medications. The incidence of NAION was 20 events in the semaglutide group vs. 3 in the non-GLP-1 RA group. The cumulative incidence was 6.7% for semaglutide, compared to 0.8% for non-GLP-1 RA over 36 months. 

The implications from the study suggest that the use of semaglutide is associated with a higher risk of NAION although further studies are required to determine causality. Strengths of the study include the large sample size, manual review by experienced neuro-ophthalmologists, and propensity score matching to reduce bias. The study was the first to report an association between semaglutide and NAION. The recommendation is to follow up with larger, multicenter studies or prospective clinical trials to confirm findings.

This infographic notes the highlights and findings of the Journal of the American Medical Association's findings in the semaglutide and NAION study. Image of a science laboratory.

Rybelsus Manufacturer’s Response to Vision Loss Allegations

Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Rybelsus, claimed that the study lacked sufficient data to establish a connection between semaglutide and NAION. As reported by multiple news sources, including CNBC, a spokesperson for the pharmaceutical company said NAION is not an “adverse drug reaction for the marketed formulations of semaglutide.”

The company also claimed that the study had “key methodological limitations,” such as the limited number of people with type 2 diabetes or obesity who had taken semaglutide and the fact that it was a non-randomized controlled trial. Ultimately, the firm said that the data published in the study are insufficient to establish a causal association between GLP-1 receptor agonist use and NAION. In an email statement, Novo Nordisk reiterated that the study’s design limitations make it difficult to draw definitive conclusions.

The Number of Rybelsus Users Reporting Vision Problems

The research, however, does suggest that there is the potential for an increased risk for patients taking semaglutide, such as Rybelsus, to develop vision problems. In general, the study found that semaglutide use was associated with a 4x higher risk of NAION when used for treating type 2 diabetes and a 7x higher risk when used for treating obesity. 

Number of Rybelsus users reporting vision problems:

  • Type 2 Diabetes Group: In a sample of 710 patients with Type 2 diabetes, 8.9% of patients taking semaglutide developed NAION, compared to 1.8% of patients taking other medications.
  • Obesity Treatment Group: In a sample of 979 patients with obesity, 6.7% of patients taking semaglutide developed NAION compared to 0.8% of patients taking other medications.

How to File a Rybelsus Vision Loss Lawsuit

If you have been diagnosed with a vision problem while taking Rybelsus, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. An attorney can help you understand your rights, including the legal process for obtaining compensation. 

Steps for filing a Rybelsus vision loss lawsuit:

  1. Determine eligibility: It is strongly recommended that you contact an attorney to determine whether you may qualify for a Rybelsus vision lawsuit. Most attorneys offer a free case review to help determine eligibility.
  2. Collect evidence: Once eligibility is determined, you will need to collect evidence to help substantiate your claim. Evidence that may help prove your case include medical records and witness testimonies. An attorney can help review medical records and ensure you have sufficient proof of Rybelsus usage history.
  3. File the claim: With sufficient evidence, your legal team can then file the claim in the appropriate jurisdiction. They will ensure that your case falls within the statute of limitation or state-specific deadline when filing.
  4. Negotiate a settlement: After the case is filed, your attorney will go through discovery and handle settlement negotiations. If a favorable settlement cannot be reached, the case will be presented in court. 
  5. Prepare for trial: At trial, the case will be decided by a judge or jury. If the decision is unfavorable, you may be able to appeal. 

Your role throughout the case is to supply the attorney with health information and supporting documentation and to allow the law firm to represent you and file the claim.

This infographic is a flow chart of the Rybelsus vision loss lawsuit from start to finish.

Contact a Rybelsus Vision Loss Lawyer

Were you diagnosed with a vision problem such as NAION or blindness after taking Rybelsus? You may be able to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk. Contact King Law to speak with an experienced attorney. Our lawyers have extensive experience handling Rybelsus and semaglutide eye side effect lawsuits and can help you get the compensation you deserve. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Find answers to any questions you have about the Rybelsus vision loss lawsuits below.

What is the Rybelsus vision loss lawsuit about?
A new study recently found that the use of semaglutide, the main ingredient in Rybelsus, may be associated with an increased risk for the development of a rare and serious vision problem known as Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). NAION can cause sudden and irreversible blindness in the eye. It is alleged that the manufacturer of Rybelsus, Novo Nordisk, knew or should have known about the risk and failed to warn consumers.
Can Rybelsus cause blurry vision?
A study, published in JAMA, found that the use of semaglutide, the main ingredient in Rybelsus, may cause blurry vision and other eye-related problems. Individuals taking Rybelsus are strongly encouraged to engage in routine eye examinations.
Does Rybelsus cause vision problems?
It is alleged, and a new study suggests, that Rybelsus (a semaglutide) may increase the risk of certain vision problems, including NAION.
Can Rybelsus affect your eyesight?
While further studies are needed, it is believed that Rybelsus and other semaglutides may be associated with an increased risk of vision problems, including blindness, blurry vision, and vision loss.
Why are people filing Rybelsus lawsuits for vision problems?
A new study has found that patients with type 2 diabetes or who are overweight/obese who take semaglutide (such as Rybelsus) may be at an increased risk for developing severe and potentially irreversible vision problems.
What eye side effects and vision problems have been reported from Rybelsus?
Side effects and vision problems associated with Rybelsus include blurry vision, dry eye syndrome, eye floaters, eye twitching, allergic reactions, NAION, and ocular migraines.
What is the percentage of NAION among Rybelsus users?
A study published in JAMA on July 3, 2024, found that 8.9% of patients with type 2 diabetes taking a semaglutide had NAION, compared to 1.8% taking a non-GLP-1 RA medication. It also found that 6.7% of obese/overweight patients taking semaglutide developed NAION, compared to 0.8% on another type of drug.
How does Rybelsus lead to vision problems like blindness?
While more research is needed to determine how Rybelsus may lead to vision problems like blindness, it is believed that the drug’s tendency to cause blood sugar fluctuations, blood pressure changes, dehydration, stress, and other problems may be behind the side effects.
What is the link between Rybelsus and NAION?
The link between Rybelsus and NAION is not yet known but may be associated with the drug’s role in managing diabetes.
Who qualifies for a Rybelsus vision loss lawsuit?
Individuals who were taking Rybelsus and subsequently diagnosed with vision problems may be eligible to file a vision loss lawsuit.
How can I file a lawsuit against Rybelsus for vision loss?
In order to file a lawsuit against Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Rybelsus, it is strongly recommended that you speak with an attorney.