GLP-1 weight loss drugs linked to vision loss risk

US health regulators have announced that popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs, including Ozempic and Wegovy, will now carry a warning about a potential risk of permanent vision loss. This condition, known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), can occur when blood flow to the optic nerve is reduced, leading to significant vision loss. The FDA has reported that NAION has been associated with all GLP-1 drugs, which are commonly used to treat obesity and diabetes. The agency's new requirement also applies to other medications like Mounjaro and Zepbound. Patients and healthcare providers are being informed about this increased risk, as there is currently no known treatment to reverse the vision loss caused by NAION.