Graphic illustration of a Balance

Weighing in on Ozempic: How GLP-1 Agonists Affect the Eyes

Does Ozempic have a downside?
The diabetes medication Ozempic has been in the news ever since the FDA approved it for blood sugar control and obesity treatment. However, can a drug that has proved to be so good at helping patients control diabetes and/or lose weight, also be not-so-good for the eyes? Let’s find out the latest information from the American Academy of Ophthalmology on this important question.

It works . . .
Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus are brand names for a class of drugs known as GLP-1 agonists. GLP-1 agonists mimic the natural hormone incretin, which is produced in the digestive tract and plays a key role in regulating appetite and food intake. Simply put, GLP-1 agonists help reduce feelings of hunger, allowing the individual to feel sated sooner.

Studies on Ozempic have shown that GLP-1 agonists can significantly help people with Type 2 Diabetes control their blood sugar. However, studies also showed GLP-1 agonists can cause vision changes, including blurred vision, worsening of diabetic retinopathy and macular complications.

Here are the caveats:
The most serious potential impact associated with GLP-1 agonists includes worsening and progression of diabetic retinopathy. This can profoundly affect daily life in the form of blurry and unstable vision. Additionally, there is evidence to suggest an indirect influence on cataract growth in those taking weekly administered GLP-1 agonist medications. Accelerated cataract maturation comes with its own unique impact on vision including increased glare, decreased night vision, and difficulty with recent glasses/contact lens prescriptions.

We discussed diabetic retinopathy in a previous blog, https://atlanticeye.com/2023/10/diabetes-and-your-eyes-understanding-diabetic-retinopathy/.

As always, talk to your ophthalmologist!
If you have diabetes, whether you’re taking a GLP-1 agonist medication, it’s critically important to get regular eye exams before you notice any signs of vision loss. Make your Atlantic Eye ophthalmologist aware of all medications you’re taking so they can track any changes in your vision and recommend potential treatments if needed. With medical supervision, any Ozempic side effects are more likely to be manageable!