GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic potentially doubling the risk of vision loss and eye disease reported.
Latest statistics reveal that a whopping one in eight individuals have dabbled with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1 medications. Initially introduced for managing type 2 diabetes, these drugs have gained traction in recent times due to their weight loss properties.
Currently, the market is dominated by two popular GLP-1 drugs: semaglutide and tirzepatide, sold under brand names such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. Although these medications offer numerous benefits, they come with potential side effects and complications.
One such concern arose in July 2024 when researchers found a link between GLP-1 drugs and nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This was followed by a January 2025 study showing an increased risk of potentially blinding eye diseases for those taking either semaglutide or tirzepatide.
Recently, a new study published in a reputable journal has added more fuel to the fire, suggesting that older adults with diabetes using any type of GLP-1 medication could be at a heightened risk for developing neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).
For this study, researchers analyzed the health records of over 139,000 Ontario residents, with an average age of 66, diagnosed with diabetes. They found that participants using GLP-1 medications had been taking them for more than six months. Semaglutide made up 97.5% of all GLP-1 prescriptions in the study period, while tirzepatide, which was not yet approved in Canada during the study period, accounted for the remaining 2.5%.
Older adults using GLP-1 medications for extended periods displayed a significantly higher risk of developing nAMD. Researchers observed a clear correlation, with the risk increasing as the duration of GLP-1 receptor agonist exposure increased.
While the absolute risk remains low, patients, especially older adults, should be aware of the possibility of new visual symptoms while taking these medications. If any changes in vision occur, they are advised to promptly inform their doctor and seek the attention of an ophthalmologist. Although this study does not prove causation, the finding of a graded relationship suggests that prolonged exposure could play a role in increasing the risk, which needs to be validated in future studies.
The researchers acknowledge the limits of their study, such as unaccounted risk factors, surveillance bias, and small event counts that might affect the accuracy of the results. Nonetheless, their findings provide a significant warning that demands increased clinical awareness. Balancing the benefits of these medications against their potential risks is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of patients.
- The increased use of GLP-1 medications for weight loss and diabetes management has brought attention to potential chronic diseases and medical conditions, such as neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).
- These medications, including semaglutide and tirzepatide, while beneficial for weight management and diabetes, have been linked to vision-threatening eye diseases.
- A recent study found that older adults with diabetes, particularly those using GLP-1 medications for over six months, showed a significantly higher risk of developing nAMD.
- The risk of nAMD appears to increase with prolonged exposure to GLP-1 receptor agonists, although the absolute risk remains low.
- Patients, especially older adults, should regularly monitor their vision while on these medications, consulting with their doctors and ophthalmologists if any changes occur.
- As the research continues to investigate the relationship between GLP-1 medications and chronic diseases, maintaining a balance between their benefits and potential risks is vital for promoting health and wellness, fitness, and exercise, as well as cardiovascular health and proper nutrition.
