Arnold Schwarzenegger has weighed in on one of the biggest concerns surrounding Ozempic, bringing renewed attention to the potential risks associated with the widely used medication and vision loss. His comments come as debate over the use of the medication risks and benefits continue online. 

The topic started after a clip went viral on social media, in which a researcher appeared on Joe Rogan’s podcast and claimed that the use of Ozempic and Wegovy could double the user’s risk of developing a rare form of sudden blindness. This claim quickly alarmed many who take this medication. 

Schwarzenegger has now addressed the claim that the reality is far less alarming than the headlines suggest. In his daily newsletter, 'Arnold's Pump Club, ' the former bodybuilder addressed these claims. 

"Several studies have linked semaglutide (the generic name of the medication that mimics GLP-1 in the body) to a rare condition that can suddenly damage vision," Schwarzenegger wrote in his news letter. "The connection was mostly in people with type 2 diabetes, and that’s only half of the story."

He further explained, pointing out to the statistics and how small the risk actually is.

"When you look at the number of people who suffer from the condition, it works out to approximately one additional case for every 10,000 people taking the medication for a year."

Schwarzenegger was also careful to note a few key points behind the data. 

"If there’s an increased risk, it seems potentially limited to those with diabetes. And the likelihood is still very small, and it hasn't been proven that the medication causes it."  

For now, Schwarzenegger's response stands as a reminder that viral claims often outpace the science behind them. 

Arnold Schwarzenegger weighs in on the tea vs statins debate

Schwarzenegger has addressed the ongoing debate whether tea or statins is better when it comes to managing cholesterol. The former bodybuilder addressed the same in his aforementioned newsletter. 

He addressed the issue after a question was raised by a user about what would be an effective alternative for someone at low risk for cholesterol. 

"Statin side effects are real, but smaller than the headlines make them out to be. And tea is good for you, but does not come close to providing the cholesterol-lowering benefits of statins."

He brought the conversation back to the original question, offering a clearer way to think about it. 

"If you're truly low-risk, the real question isn't tea versus statin. It's whether you need a statin at all, and that’s a conversation to have with your doctor using your actual numbers (LDL, blood pressure, family history, a risk score)."

At the end of the day, Arnold Schwarzenegger steers clear of picking sides when it comes to the tea vs. statins debate. 

Written by

Chionia Libania Colaco