Can GLP-1 Medications Affect Your Eyesight?

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, commonly known as GLP-1 medications, have recently gained popularity in the modern medical world for the treatment of diabetes and obesity. Many have named Ozempic, a well-known GLP-1 medication, the “miracle drug” for its astounding ability to help patients lose weight and better control their diabetes. But recent studies report visual side effects, which have the eye care world wondering if GLP-1s are a little too good to be true. 

A 2025 study titled “Ocular Adverse Events Associated with GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: A Real-World Study Based on the FAERS Database and Network Pharmacology” found that GLP-1 medication was associated with ocular adverse events such as blurred vision, visual impairment, and diabetic retinopathy.

Another observational study from 2024, titled “Risk of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy in Patients Prescribed Semaglutide,” noted an association between semaglutide, the main drug in Ozempic, and Non - Arteritic Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION), an ocular disease which can cause permanent and severe vision loss. This new information has left many patients wondering if these novel “miracle drugs” are safe to use.

The doctors and clinical staff at The Eye Institute (TEI) of Drexel University are committed to helping patients navigate the confusing and novel world of GLP-1 drugs. With any medication or medical procedure, there exists important decisions regarding risk vs. benefit. Every time a provider prescribes a medication, there is a risk of adverse side effects for the patient, but those risks are often outweighed by the benefit of taking the medication. 

A similar conversation arises when talking about GLP-1 drugs: although the research is relatively new and there is still a lot the eye care community is yet to understand about these drugs, there does seem to be reliable evidence that Ozempic and its sister drugs can cause adverse visual side effects, according to these studies.

According to Dr. Maria Parisi, primary care optometrist and associate dean of clinical affairs at TEI, rapid weight loss may also be associated with visual and ocular changes. While more research is needed to determine the causality for ocular complications, a baseline eye examination and prompt eye care are recommended if patients experience visual changes.

The best course of action at this time is to discuss the risks and benefits of the medication with both your prescribing doctor and your eye doctor to determine if the medication is right for you. In addition, if you are already taking a GLP-1 medication and notice a change in your vision, call your eye doctor immediately for treatment. The Eye Institute has an Emergency Service for urgent and emergent care for current patients. Call TEI at 215.276.6111 to schedule your appointment today or click here to make an appointment.