Flashing Lights / Visual Disturbances
Users on Reddit have reported a variety of visual disturbances while on GLP-1 medications, ranging from worsening eyesight and blurriness to more specific phenomena like flashing lights or orbs. The primary recommendation across these discussions is to seek immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist, especially as some of these symptoms can indicate serious underlying conditions like retinal detachment or diabetic retinopathy.
Experiences with Flashing Lights / Visual Disturbances:
Another user on Zepbound for 2 months reported: "my vision went to shit, where it was excellent…I have been off it for a year and started using glasses and. It seems like it’s still getting worse. "[3]
A user mentioned, "Yea I see static everywhere. "[6] Another user, in response to a question about vision issues after eating carbs/sugar, stated they experience "crazy mainly with depth perception problems and major brain fog that lasts for days. "[5]
One commenter shared an anecdote: "NAION - had a patient on wegovy wake up with no vision in one eye and apparently it’s irreversible"[10]
Another user reported blurry vision and floaters: "Just blurry vision really- first it seemed like print was moving when I was trying to read it. I’ve always had floaters, so that wasn’t really concerning to me. When I started paying attention i noticed that things were slightly dimmer in that eye and I would have trouble with things that are similar contrast (light switches) for a second or two if my good eye was covered. It is only a section of my visual field - not the whole thing. "[12] Two of this user's co-workers on Wegovy also experienced "floaters, inability to focus on objects, and blurred vision," with one diagnosed with uveitis. [13]
Concerns and Links to Other Conditions:
Another commenter warned, "These could be symptoms of a retinal detachment which could result is rapid and irreversible vision loss. OP, please get checked by an ophthalmologist soon. "[8]
The potential worsening of diabetic retinopathy is also a concern. A user mentioned, "Sudden improvement in glycemic control is associated with a worsening of diabetic retinopathy. If your body responded really well to ozempic it's possible you're seeing the results of this effect. "[4, 9]
One user was not allowed to start Ozempic because it would likely worsen their retinopathy. [7]
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
Annual Eye Exams for Diabetics: For diabetic patients, regular (annual) eye exams with dilation are emphasized. [4]
Stay Hydrated and Use Artificial Tears: One user suggested, "Ozempic/GLPs can dry out your eyes, which can exacerbate any eye or vision problems. Make sure you’re staying hydrated and using artificial tears. "[4]
Discuss with Doctor: Users advise discussing any vision changes with the prescribing doctor immediately. [1, 15]
It's important to note that some users question the direct causality between GLP-1s and severe vision issues like NAION, suggesting that underlying conditions or other factors might be at play. [11, 16] However, the overwhelming consensus is to take any new or worsening visual symptoms seriously and seek professional medical evaluation.
Experiences with Flashing Lights / Visual Disturbances:
- One user on Ozempic for 6 months described their experience: "I thought I was seeing either something paranormal or maybe my guardian angel or a ghost or something?
Concerns and Links to Other Conditions:
- Several users and commenters highlighted that flashing lights can be a serious symptom.
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
- See an Ophthalmologist ASAP: This is the most consistent advice.
It's important to note that some users question the direct causality between GLP-1s and severe vision issues like NAION, suggesting that underlying conditions or other factors might be at play. [11, 16] However, the overwhelming consensus is to take any new or worsening visual symptoms seriously and seek professional medical evaluation.