
Urgent Health Alerts: Eye Condition Linked to Semaglutide & Encephalitis Risk with Chickenpox Vaccines!
2025-06-06
Author: Yu
Eye Condition Alert: Semaglutide Under Scrutiny!
In a groundbreaking announcement, the European Medicines Agency's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) has revealed a rare but serious potential side effect of semaglutide medicines—specifically, the risk of developing non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), an alarming eye condition that could lead to vision loss!
Semaglutide, found in popular diabetes and obesity treatments like Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy, has been under intense review following increased reports of NAION. PRAC has classified this eye condition as a "very rare" side effect, estimated to affect just 1 in 10,000 users. Patients experiencing sudden vision loss while on semaglutide are urged to seek immediate medical attention, and if NAION is confirmed, their treatment must be halted.
Chickenpox Vaccine Concerns: A Tragic Case Sparks Re-evaluation!
In another serious health update, PRAC is currently examining the risk of encephalitis linked to varicella vaccines—Varilrix and Varivax—after a tragic incident in Poland where a child sadly passed away from the condition shortly after vaccination. These vaccines, designed to protect against chickenpox, have been administered to countless individuals in the EU, and health officials are taking these reports very seriously.
Though varicella is typically a mild illness in children, it can lead to severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis. This latest review seeks to assess the overall risk, given that encephalitis has previously been listed as a rare side effect in vaccine information.
Amid ongoing investigations, the Polish medicines agency has temporarily halted the distribution of suspect vaccine batches as a precaution, and PRAC continues to gather evidence to clarify the situation.
Stay Informed and Cautious!
As these significant health issues unfold, both patients and healthcare providers are encouraged to stay vigilant. Monitoring the latest updates from the EMA could be vital in ensuring safety and swift action in healthcare decisions.