The Daily News – June 12, 2025

Could GLP-1 medications be putting your vision at risk? They’ve been hailed as game changers for weight loss and diabetes, but a new study raises concerns about rare but potentially serious side effects, including irreversible vision loss. Researchers at the University of Utah found that some patients taking these drugs experienced optic nerve strokes, retinal strokes, and nerve swelling complications that could permanently damage eyesight. The study considered nine individuals most in their late fifties who developed sudden vision issues after starting the medication. So of course, we’re wondering why is this happening? One theory is that GLP-1 drugs rapidly lower blood sugar, which could trigger an osmotic shift, a sudden fluid movement that affects the delicate structures of the eye. While this side effect appears to be rare, ophthalmologists say it’s important to be aware of a doctor involved in the study explained, if you experience a change in your vision while using one of these drugs, you should consult the prescribing doctor and see an ophthalmologist. He also recommends that patients start these medications gradually to avoid dramatic blood sugar drops that might contribute to eye complications. The FDA is now being urged to conduct post-marketing surveys to determine just how widespread these issues might be. Other experts do suggest that people at risk, especially those with diabetes, sleep apnea, or other eye conditions, consider getting an eye exam before starting GLP-1 medications. So should you stop taking it. Well, according to the study from medical news today, the answer is no. Doctors are not advising patients to stop taking GLP-1 medications if they are helping manage their health. Instead, they emphasize the need for monitoring and early detection because when it comes to your vision, every second counts, what do you think? Should there be more testing before the drugs hit the market? Well, let us know in the comments, and if you found this information helpful, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit that notification bell. As always, thank you so much for joining us on the Daily News.