Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, belonging to the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist class, are commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight management. However, a recent small study from the University of British Columbia has raised concerns about potential vision-related side effects.

The study observed nine patients using GLP-1 drugs who experienced various ophthalmic complications. Seven patients developed nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a condition affecting vision in one eye. One patient presented with bilateral papillitis (swollen optic nerves), while another experienced paracentral acute middle maculopathy, causing a retinal blind spot. These patients had a history of conditions like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and/or sleep apnea.

It's important to note that this was a small, uncontrolled study, meaning it lacked a comparison group of individuals not using GLP-1 drugs. This makes it difficult to definitively establish a causal link between the medications and the reported vision problems. Clinical epidemiologist Ziyad Al-Aly highlighted this limitation, emphasizing the need for larger, controlled studies to thoroughly investigate potential long-term effects.

While acknowledging the study's limitations, researchers also pointed to another epidemiological study that suggested an increased risk of eye issues with GLP-1 drugs. Experts recommend that individuals with existing vision problems or concerns discuss the risks and benefits of GLP-1 medications with their doctors. For those with diabetes, the cardiovascular benefits of these drugs might outweigh the potential risks, but careful monitoring is crucial.

Dr. Seth Kipnis suggested that the vision changes might be related to rapid blood sugar fluctuations caused by the medication rather than the medication itself. He emphasized the importance of reporting any unusual symptoms to healthcare providers. Most vision-related side effects seem to resolve upon discontinuation of the medication.

Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic and Wegovy, stated that NAION is a rare eye disease and not considered an adverse drug reaction for semaglutide based on current labeling. They maintain that the benefit-risk profile of semaglutide remains unchanged. However, they acknowledge that eye conditions are common comorbidities for individuals with diabetes and recommend consulting a healthcare professional before starting any prescription medication.