Ophthalmologists level to rising proof that medication for aiding weight reduction, and enhancing blood sugar management could also be linked to preliminary worsening of diabetic retinopathy.
Medical consultants have urged warning over potential eye-related dangers related to GLP-1 receptor agonists, a category of medicine more and more used to deal with weight problems and type-2 diabetes.
Medicines reminiscent of semaglutide (offered as Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) have gained international consideration for his or her effectiveness in enhancing blood sugar management and aiding weight reduction.
Their use in India is predicted to rise following the expiry of semaglutide’s key patent on March 20, doubtlessly paving the best way for extra inexpensive variations. Whereas this might increase entry, docs warned it might additionally result in unsupervised or inappropriate use.
Rising issues
Ophthalmologists level to rising proof that these medication could also be linked to an preliminary worsening of diabetic retinopathy and, in uncommon instances, non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) – usually described as an “eye stroke” that may trigger sudden, painless imaginative and prescient loss.
Specialists stated fast reductions in blood sugar ranges triggered by these therapies could quickly have an effect on blood movement to the retina and optic nerve in some sufferers.
Proof and threat elements
Though long-term knowledge continues to be evolving, international companies such because the World Well being Organisation and the European Medicines Company have recognised NAION as a uncommon potential opposed impact.
The chance seems greater amongst people with pre-existing diabetic retinopathy, hypertension, sleep apnoea, or sure optic nerve traits, although general incidence stays low.
Name for cautious use
Rohit Shetty, Director of Narayana Nethralaya, stated the advantages of those medication have to be balanced with cautious medical judgment.
“These medicines are efficient when used appropriately, however their growing use means we have to be extra vigilant in figuring out sufferers at greater threat of issues,” he stated.
He careworn the necessity for detailed pre-treatment analysis. “Assessing each systemic and ocular well being – significantly the presence of diabetic retinopathy or vascular threat elements – helps in stratifying sufferers and selecting probably the most acceptable remedy,” he stated.
He added that high-risk sufferers may have nearer monitoring, together with baseline and periodic retinal examinations. “In some instances, tighter follow-up and even reconsideration of remedy could also be required, particularly throughout the early part when blood sugar ranges change quickly,” he stated.
Want for built-in care
G. V. Divakar, previous president of the Bangalore Ophthalmic Society and guide at Divakars Speciality Hospital, stated GLP-1 receptor agonists have been linked to uncommon however severe ocular issues.
“These embrace non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, which can lead to everlasting imaginative and prescient loss, in addition to development of diabetic retinopathy,” he stated, emphasising the necessity for normal eye examinations and follow-up.
“A collaborative strategy between endocrinologists and ophthalmologists is vital to minimising dangers whereas guaranteeing sufferers profit from these therapies. With wider entry anticipated, sufferers mustn’t self-medicate. Therapy ought to solely be undertaken underneath correct medical supervision,” he stated.
Rajesh R., guide – Vitreo-retina and Ocular Oncology at Sankara Eye Hospital, stated whereas these medication are efficient, consciousness of potential dangers is essential.
“Fast enchancment in blood glucose ranges can generally result in a brief worsening of diabetic retinopathy. This isn’t distinctive to those medication and may happen with any type of intensive glucose management,” he defined.
Most susceptible
Sufferers with long-standing uncontrolled diabetes or superior retinopathy are significantly susceptible. Some visible disturbances reported throughout remedy could also be linked to fluctuations in blood sugar fairly than a direct drug impact, he stated.
Dr. Rajesh additionally identified that remoted reviews of optic nerve-related imaginative and prescient loss are nonetheless underneath investigation. “At current, there may be not sufficient proof to determine a transparent causal relationship, and additional analysis is required,” he stated.
Revealed – April 01, 2026 10:13 pm IST
