Popular GLP-1 medications linked to rare risk of sudden vision loss

A large study led by researchers at Rutgers University has found that popular diabetes and weight loss medications are linked to a slightly increased risk of a rare condition that can cause sudden and potentially permanent vision loss, ScienceDaily reported. The finding affects widely used medications, including Ozempic and Wegovy, which belong to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. Researchers noted that although the risk warrants medical attention, the overall probability of experiencing vision loss remains very low. [1]

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, is an anti-diabetic and anti-obesity medication administered orally or through subcutaneous injection. It works by mimicking the endogenous hormone GLP-1 to regulate appetite, slow gastric emptying, and improve glycemic control. In addition to blood sugar management and weight reduction, regulators expanded the approval of Wegovy in March 2024 to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke in overweight or obese adults with established cardiovascular disease. [2][4]

As FTMQ Science reported earlier, GLP-1 medications have previously been linked to other unexpected secondary effects. A multinational study published earlier this month showed that patients taking drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound faced significantly higher rates of hair loss, scalp inflammation, and nail detachment, with patients more than four times as likely to experience nail detachment than those not taking the drugs. [5]

The latest Rutgers study highlights the need for continued monitoring of rare adverse events as millions of people turn to GLP-1 medications worldwide. While these treatments offer demonstrated benefits for weight loss and cardiovascular health, researchers emphasize that healthcare providers should stay informed about potential ocular risks in patients prescribed these therapies. [1][2][4]