New research has raised concerns that widely used weight-loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound may be associated with an increased risk of serious eye conditions, including sudden vision loss.

Two studies published in JAMA examined the effects of semaglutide and tirzepatide, drugs commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight loss, on eye health over two years.

Researchers found a modest increase in cases of non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a rare condition that cuts off blood flow to the optic nerve and can cause sudden blindness.

Among more than 159,000 participants with type 2 diabetes, 35 developed NAION compared with 19 in a control group. Another 93 patients reported ?other optic nerve disorders.?

A separate study found no statistically significant rise in NAION cases among GLP-1 drug users but did record a small increase in diabetic retinopathy, a condition that can damage the retina and impair vision.

Researchers urged caution, recommending that diabetic patients on GLP-1 therapies undergo regular eye screening.

?All patients with type 2 diabetes treated with GLP-1 RAs? should be regularly screened and monitored for potential complications,? the study authors concluded.

Experts, however, stressed that the risks remain rare. Dr. Sue Decotiis, a New York-based weight loss specialist, said more evidence is needed before drawing firm conclusions. ?NAION is a rare condition of the optic nerve that, although serious, has not really been shown to be increased by these studies,? she told Fox News Digital.

Ophthalmologist Dr. Ashley Brissette echoed that view, noting the risk of NAION is estimated at just one in 10,000. She said the findings highlight the Importance of baseline and follow-up eye exams, especially for patients with pre-existing risk factors.

Both experts emphasised that the benefits of GLP-1 drugs, from reducing cardiovascular disease to improving diabetes control, remain significant. They advised patients to monitor their vision closely and seek urgent medical care if sudden symptoms occur.

Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, responded that NAION is not listed as an adverse reaction in the approved U.S. drug labels.

The company said an analysis of clinical trials found no evidence of a causal link between GLP-1 drugs and the condition. (Nigerian Tribune)

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