Eye risk linked to weight loss jabs prompts checks

Two studies link GLP-1 drugs Wegovy and Mounjaro to a modest rise in diabetic retinopathy, prompting calls for routine eye checks.

Weight loss jabs raise risk of eye disease

A Massachusetts study of health records from more than 185 000 patients prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonists found a modest link to diabetic retinopathy, a sight threatening complication caused by damage to retinal blood vessels. Drugs in this class include semaglutide, marketed as Wegovy, and tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro. Researchers noted that while the risk appeared higher in users, the progression to the most severe outcomes was less common than expected, and NAION risk did not rise significantly.

A separate US study with about 159 398 people reported an increased risk of non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy and other optic nerve disorders among those treated with semaglutide or tirzepatide, though the overall incidence remained small. After two years, 0.04% of treated participants developed NAION compared with 0.02% in a matched control group, and 0.12% faced other optic nerve problems versus 0.07% in controls. The researchers cautioned that no association was found with other disorders of the optic nerve or visual pathways. In the Massachusetts study, some authors disclosed conflicts of interest with drug manufacturers.

Taken together, the findings temper the hype around these weight loss injections. The appeal of rapid pounds off and better blood sugar is clear, but safety signals require clearer guidance for clinicians and patients. The studies highlight the need for independent research and transparent disclosures, because conflicts of interest can shake trust in medical findings.

Regulators and clinicians must balance encouraging obesity treatment with guarding eye health. Routine eye screenings for users, clearer labeling, and patient education could help. The commercial push, high demand, and reports of side effects add pressure on health systems to ensure access without sacrificing safety.

Highlights

Safer use comes from better evidence, not bold promises.