Indian journal of ophthalmologyMar 12, 2026

Eye problems linked to glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist medicines: Clinical findings and understanding

GLP-1 Therapies Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗OA ↗

Updated Mar 16, 2026

Abstract

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, has been associated with an increased risk of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) and diabetic retinopathy progression.

Concerns exist regarding ocular adverse events linked to glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, particularly in patients with preexisting eye conditions.
Findings from various studies show mixed results, with some indicating no statistically significant association between GLP-1 RAs and ocular events.
Data from adverse event reporting systems suggest potential signals for ocular hazards related to GLP-1 RA therapy.
The review emphasizes the importance of monitoring and preventative measures in clinical settings for patients on GLP-1 RAs.
Additional prospective research with clearly defined ocular outcomes is needed to clarify the relationship between GLP-1 RAs and eye-related adverse effects.

Simplified

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity are commonly treated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). However, there have been growing concerns over the possibility that these medications may result in ocular adverse events, such as nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Standard clinical care can overlook these potentially fatal adverse effects. The purpose of this review was to compile the most recent data on ocular side effects associated with GLP-1 RA therapy, assess their clinical relevance, and highlight necessary preventative and monitoring measures. A thorough search of the literature was conducted using Medline/PubMed/PMC, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. Relevant literature, including observational studies, randomized trials, case reports, and pharmacovigilance data, was selected for its discussion of GLP-1 RAs and associated eye-related adverse events. Semaglutide, a GLP-1 RA, has been associated in a number of studies and safety assessments with an increased risk of NAION and the progression of diabetic retinopathy, especially in patients with underlying eye disorders. Findings, however, were mixed because no statistically significant link was found in a number of cohort studies and meta-analyses. The necessity for additional research was supported by data from adverse event reporting systems that showed disproportionality signals. Clinicians should be mindful of the potential ocular hazards associated with GLP-1 RAs, even though these medications remain useful in treating T2DM and obesity. Closer ophthalmologic monitoring may be beneficial for patients with known diabetic eye problems. Further prospective research with well-defined ocular outcomes is required to elucidate these correlations and guarantee the secure administration of GLP-1 RAs.

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Eye problems linked to glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist medicines: Clinical findings and understanding

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