GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic, could potentially double the risk of eye loss or vision problems.
GLP-1 Agonists and the Risk of Vision Issues in Older Adults with Diabetes
GLP-1 medications, like semaglutide and tirzepatide, have gained popularity for treating type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss. However, recent discoveries have linked these drugs to an increased risk of certain eye diseases.
A new study, as per the Journal, points to an elevated risk of developing neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in older adults with diabetes taking any type of GLP-1 medication. This condition can potentially lead to visual impairment or blindness.
The Popular GLP-1 Medications
Semaglutide, also known as Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss, and tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro and Zepbound, are the most commonly used GLP-1 drugs. Despite the benefits they offer, potential complications have been reported in the past, such as an increased risk of developing nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) and retinal detachment.
The New Study
The research team analyzed health records from over 139,000 Ontario residents with an average age of 66 and a diabetes diagnosis. They found that participants using GLP-1 medications for more than six months had a two-fold higher risk of developing nAMD. The risk seemed to increase with prolonged exposure to these medications, suggesting a dose-response relationship.
Rajeev H. Muni, MD, associate professor at the University of Toronto, explained that semaglutide made up 97.5% of GLP-1 prescriptions in their study, with the remaining 2.5% mainly consisting of lixisenatide, often in combination with exenatide. Tirzepatide was not included as it was not yet approved in Canada during the study period.
Implications for Patients
While the absolute risk remains relatively low, patients who may be at higher risk for nAMD, such as older adults, should be aware of the possibility of new visual symptoms. If any changes in vision occur while taking these medications, it's essential to inform the doctor promptly and seek an ophthalmologist's assessment.
Further investigations are needed to confirm these findings and establish the long-term ocular safety of GLP-1 RAs. As these medications have significant benefits for cardiovascular health and diabetes management, clinicians should weigh the risks and benefits when prescribing them.
Previous observational studies have indicated an increased risk of developing nAMD in older adults with type 2 diabetes taking GLP-1 receptor agonists, particularly semaglutide[3][4][5]. The absolute risk remains low, but the relative risk is significant enough to warrant careful monitoring and clinical awareness. Ongoing research is needed to confirm causality and clarify underlying mechanisms.
- The study in the Journal highlights a higher risk of developing neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in older adults with diabetes who use GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide.
- Semaglutide, marketed as Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss, is the most common GLP-1 drug, with a two-fold higher risk of developing nAMD observed in participants using it for more than six months.
- Prolonged exposure to GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide, seems to increase the risk of nAMD, suggestive of a dose-response relationship.
- Mental health, skin conditions, and chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes are interconnected with eye health, emphasizing the importance of medical-conditions and health-and-wellness awareness.
- Nutrition, fitness-and-exercise, and weight management are crucial in maintaining overall wellness and could potentially provide additional protections against eye diseases in individuals with diabetes.
- In light of these findings, it's vital for patients to be aware of any new visual symptoms when using GLP-1 medications, as prompt communication with their doctor and an ophthalmologist's assessment is essential.
- Science continues to investigate the long-term ocular safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists, considering their significant benefits for cardiovascular health and diabetes management; clinicians must weigh the risks and benefits when prescribing these drugs.
