Non-Arteritic Ischaemic Optic Neuropathy Associated with Semaglutide Use

Abstract

Presentation
A 50-year-old obese male with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) taking Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) presented with sudden, painless vision-loss from his right eye.

Diagnosis
Right eye visual acuity was 6/24. There was Frisen grade IV optic nerve head (ONH) oedema. This was confirmed at imaging with ocular coherence tomography (OCT). The patient was diagnosed with non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy.

Treatment
Semaglutide was ceased.

Discussion/Conclusion
GLP-1RAs such as Semaglutide are being increasingly recognised as a potential risk factor for NAION. A case such as this has not yet been reported in Ireland.