Ozempic and Similar Drugs May Raise Risk of Vision Loss, Study Finds

June 6, 2025 – Popular GLP-1 receptor agonist medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, widely used for weight loss and diabetes, are now raising concerns among doctors. Specifically, new studies highlight potential GLP-1 vision side effects. These drugs might cause serious eye conditions. Recent research suggests a link between these medications and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). They also point to non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a type of eye stroke.

Furthermore, a new study from University of Toronto researchers shows a potential risk. It appeared in JAMA Ophthalmology. Diabetic patients using GLP-1 drugs might be twice as likely to develop neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). This is the more severe form of AMD. Researchers analyzed health data from nearly 140,000 diabetic patients in Canada. All were aged 66 or older. Although the overall risk remains low, the study found a slightly higher risk. This was particularly for those on GLP-1s long-term. Consequently, this adds to growing concerns about these medications’ effects on vision.

Weight loss drugs linked to higher risk of eye damage in diabetic patients

Study finds medicines such as Ozempic associated with greater risk of developing age-related macular degeneration

A study by Canadian scientists published in JAMA Ophthalmology has found that after six… pic.twitter.com/Oi1zYduMtQ

— Professor Erwin Loh (@erwinloh) June 6, 2025

In addition, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has also commented. They concluded that NAION is a “very rare” side effect. This applies to semaglutide-containing medicines. These include Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy. The EMA’s Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) estimates NAION could affect up to 1 in 10,000 people taking semaglutide. Therefore, this suggests roughly a two-fold increased risk. This is compared to those not on the drug. NAION happens when insufficient blood flow reaches the optic nerve. Thus, it often causes sudden, permanent vision loss in one eye.

Moreover, these findings build on earlier reports of vision problems. These were seen in patients taking GLP-1 drugs. Previous studies identified cases of NAION. They also noted papillitis (optic nerve inflammation). And paracentral acute middle maculopathy. These occurred in individuals after starting these medications. These conditions can cause blind spots. While a direct cause hasn’t been definitively proven, some researchers believe rapid blood sugar reduction might trigger these eye issues. This is a key function of GLP-1 drugs. This could be especially true for vulnerable individuals. Indeed, we know big changes in blood glucose can temporarily impact vision. This further emphasizes potential GLP-1 vision side effects.

Given these concerns, medical experts are urging caution. Patients on GLP-1 agonists, or those considering them, should immediately tell their doctors about any sudden vision changes. This includes blurring, dimness, or vision loss. Likewise, doctors are also advising baseline eye exams for diabetic patients considering these drugs. They recommend close monitoring for those with existing diabetic retinopathy.

GLP-1 drugs offer significant benefits. They manage diabetes and promote weight loss. They greatly improve patient outcomes. However, these new concerns highlight the need for ongoing research. Careful patient monitoring is also crucial. Ultimately, as these medications become more popular, understanding their long-term effects on vision is vital. This will help ensure patient safety. It will also optimize treatment plans. For more information on diabetes management, you can refer to resources from the World Health Organization. To understand more about eye health, consider visiting a reputable eye care organization’s website.

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