Weight Loss Drugs Linked to Sudden Vision Loss, Study Finds
Recent research indicates that certain medications used for weight loss and diabetes management may be associated with a rare but serious risk of sudden vision loss. A review of reports submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between 2017 and 2024 revealed a link between some GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs and cases of ischemic optic neuropathy, sometimes referred to as “eye stroke,” which can lead to sudden, painless vision loss. This finding highlights the importance of being aware of potential side effects when considering these medications for weight management or diabetes treatment.
The study, published in the New York Post, found that Wegovy, approved in 2021, was linked to an approximately five times higher risk of developing ischemic optic neuropathy compared to similar drugs like Ozempic. Data similarly showed that men were three times more likely to report these complications than women.
Despite Ozempic being on the market for a longer period, the number of reports associated with Wegovy was higher, potentially reflecting the drug’s dosage and how quickly It’s absorbed by the body. Researchers noted that Terzepatide, a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist, did not show a similar association. The slower absorption rate of the Rybelsus tablet form appeared to reduce the risk, as it limits peak drug concentrations in the blood.
Drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro are widely used to combat both weight gain and obesity, and are frequently prescribed by doctors to diabetic patients for weight loss and blood sugar control. The findings underscore the need for continued monitoring of these medications and careful consideration of individual patient risk factors.
Further information on the potential risks associated with Wegovy can be found here, and a more detailed report on the study findings is available here.
