Several recent studies have shown that diabetes medications, often used as weight loss aids, can frequently lead to serious and even vision loss.
Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy (semaglutide), and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have transformed the approach to treating diabetes and obesity worldwide. These drugs mimic the action of the natural hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), suppressing appetite and helping with weight loss while controlling blood sugar levels.
Researchers found that patients taking these medications had an increased risk of optic nerve diseases, particularly a rare and destructive condition known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This condition reduces or blocks blood flow to the optic nerve, leading to what is often referred to as an “eye stroke.” Patients typically notice the issue only after experiencing vision loss in one eye. Currently, there are no treatments available for this condition. usually deteriorates over several weeks and may gradually stabilize, but in 70 percent of cases, it does not improve, according to Science Alert.
What Did Researchers Discover?
In 2024, an international team of researchers published a paper in JAMA detailing their findings, which confirmed the link between semaglutide use and the development of NAION.
Two recently published studies examined data from patients with living in the U.S. over two years. Overall, the researchers analyzed medical records of approximately 185,000 individuals.
Independent teams concluded that semaglutide and tirzepatide are associated with an increased likelihood of optic nerve diseases. They also found a rise in cases of diabetic retinopathy (a retinal disease that develops as a complication of diabetes) among those prescribed these medications.
Researchers delving into this issue emphasize the need for further studies to better understand the impact of weight loss drugs on vision. Currently, a five-year clinical trial is underway, investigating the long-term effects of semaglutide on diabetic eye disease in 1,500 participants. The results of this study are expected to provide more detailed information about the risks associated with these medications.
What Should Consumers of Miracle Injections Consider?
Those taking semaglutide and tirzepatide need to find a balance between the potential risks and benefits of these diabetes and obesity medications.
Individuals with multiple risk factors for NAION, such as sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and diabetes, should consult their doctor carefully before starting these medications.
Another risk factor for developing NAION is crowded optic nerve discs, an anatomical feature where blood vessels in the optic nerve disc are closely packed together. People with this characteristic should also undergo an examination before taking these .
Although NAION can occur suddenly, regular comprehensive eye exams with an ophthalmologist remain crucial. These check-ups can detect other vision problems related to medication use, such as worsening diabetic retinopathy. It’s also important to inform your doctor that you are taking weight loss medications so they can monitor your eye health more closely.
Interestingly, new studies have also shown that improving heart health can help reduce the risk of developing NAION. This requires properly managing hypertension, diabetes, and addressing high cholesterol, as all these conditions damage the small blood vessels that nourish the optic nerve.
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