ATLANTA — Doctors are urging patients considering GLP-1 weight loss medications to get a comprehensive eye exam due to a possible side effect impacting vision.
Jacqueline Bowen with the American Optometric Association says doctors are seeing an increased risk of Optic Neuritis, or swelling of the optic nerve, among patients using the medications.
“One of the things we’re seeing in all populations is an increased risk of Optic Neuritis, which is the swelling of the optic nerve. That might result in a sudden or gradual loss of vision, color-dimming, just kind of something funny in your vision,” Bowen said.
She advises patients to get a comprehensive eye exam within a month of starting the drug if they have not had one in the past year.
“If you have not had a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist in the year prior to starting the medication, get that done within a month or so of starting it,” Bowen said.
Doctors report that as more people use GLP-1 medications, they are seeing more cases of optic nerve swelling, which can lead to vision problems if not addressed.
“With patients who are at risk for diabetic eye disease and Macular Degeneration, those risks of increased bleeding on the retina have increased as we’ve seen more people on these medications as well,” Bowen said.
The American Optometric Association recommends patients get a baseline eye exam before starting the medication and continue with yearly exams.
“It’s just like with any medication, it’s a great medication but every medication has risks. This one doesn’t escape that theory,” Bowen said.
An estimated 12% of U.S. adults have used GLP-1 medications so far, with approximately 25 to 30 million people currently taking them.
WSB Radio’s Sabrina Cupit contributed to this story.