Worsening of Retinopathy
Users on Reddit report a variety of experiences concerning worsening retinopathy and other vision problems while on GLP-1 medications. The primary concern revolves around the potential for these drugs to exacerbate pre-existing diabetic retinopathy, particularly when blood sugar levels drop rapidly. There are also mentions of a rare but serious condition called Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION).
Experiences with Worsening Retinopathy and Vision Issues:
New Vision Problems and Symptoms: A user on Ozempic for six months reported, "my eyesite has gotten worse... Now since I've been on Ozempic I have to wear reading glasses on top of my contact lenses especially to read. "[3] Another user on Zepbound for two months said, "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. "[18]
Flashing Lights and Potential Retinal Detachment: The same user who reported worsening eyesight also described seeing "a small shooting star, or a flash of white light, or an orb... over my left shoulder. "[3] Commenters warned this could be serious: "The flashing light can be a serious problem. You need to see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. It could indicate retina issues. "[13] Another added, "This can a sign of a partial retinal detachment. "[14]
Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION): Some users mentioned NAION as a concern. One user asked, "Anyone experiencing vision issues? When the reports of NAION came out I got pretty scared. "[16] A medical professional shared an anecdotal case: "NAION - had a patient on wegovy wake up with no vision in one eye and apparently it’s irreversible"[20], and another reported, "I had a patient a couple of months back that came in with NAION shortly after starting Ozempic. "[21] One comment also pointed out, "From what I understand there are two eye issues. One is early worsening of diabetic retinopathy... The second is a large increase in relative risk of NAION in T2DM patients, tho the absolute risk is still low. "[2]
General Link to Vision Loss: One user mentioned, "I did read somewhere that it can cause vision loss. "[7] Another shared a link and a warning from their doctor: "Drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy linked to eye condition causing vision loss... My eye doctor warned me about this at my last visit. "[8]
Official Warnings: A comment cited product information: "Diabetic Retinopathy Complications in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Has been reported in trials with semaglutide. Patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy should be monitored (5. 7). "[22]
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
Regular Eye Examinations: For diabetics, annual eye checks with dilation are crucial. "And always have yearly eye exams. "[5] and "as a diabetic, you should be getting an annual eye check with dilation with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. "[10]
Discuss with Your Doctor: It's important to talk to the prescribing doctor about any vision concerns or pre-existing eye conditions before starting or continuing GLP-1 medication. [4, 10]
Hydration and Eye Care: GLP-1s can cause dry eyes. "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. "[10]
Monitoring for Patients with History: "Patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy should be monitored" when on semaglutide. [22]
Consider Alternatives if High Risk: If there's significant pre-existing retinopathy, GLP-1s might not be suitable. "I wasn’t allowed to go on ozempic because it would likely worsen my retinopathy. "[4]
It's important to note that while some users report these negative experiences, others with pre-existing blurriness due to high blood sugar reported no new issues after starting GLP-1s. [17] However, the potential for worsening retinopathy, especially with rapid glycemic control, and the rare risk of NAION are significant concerns highlighted by users.
Experiences with Worsening Retinopathy and Vision Issues:
- Worsening of Existing Diabetic Retinopathy: Several users and comments highlight that rapid improvements in glycemic control or rapid weight loss, often facilitated by GLP-1s, can paradoxically worsen diabetic retinopathy in the short term, especially in those with poorly controlled diabetes.
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
- Consult an Ophthalmologist Immediately: This is the most emphasized advice, especially for symptoms like flashing lights or sudden vision changes.
It's important to note that while some users report these negative experiences, others with pre-existing blurriness due to high blood sugar reported no new issues after starting GLP-1s. [17] However, the potential for worsening retinopathy, especially with rapid glycemic control, and the rare risk of NAION are significant concerns highlighted by users.