Recent research has identified a potential link between GLP-1 drugs, commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes, and an increased risk of developing wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto, the study analyzed health records of nearly 140,000 adults with type 2 diabetes. It found that those prescribed GLP-1 medications, particularly semaglutide—found in popular drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy—were more than twice as likely to develop wet AMD compared to non-users.
Wet AMD, a more aggressive form of age-related macular degeneration, is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss among older adults. The study indicated a dose-response relationship, where the risk of developing wet AMD increased with the duration of GLP-1 use. Participants who took the medication for 18 to 30 months experienced more than double the risk, while those on the drugs for over 30 months had more than triple the risk.
Despite these findings, the absolute risk remains relatively low, with rates of 0.2% for GLP-1 users versus 0.1% for non-users. Experts caution that while the study does not establish a definitive causal link, it highlights the need for further investigation into the ocular safety profile of GLP-1 medications.
The research prompts a call for heightened awareness among healthcare providers and patients regarding potential eye health risks associated with extended use of GLP-1 drugs. Annual eye exams are recommended for those with diabetes to facilitate early detection of possible vision-related issues. It is essential for individuals taking these medications to be vigilant about any changes in vision and to consult their healthcare providers if they notice symptoms such as blurriness or distortion in their central vision.