GLP-1 weight loss drugs and vision: what clinicians need to know
The College has issued guidance, following the recent MHRA drug safety update, which has drawn attention to a very rare risk of non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION) associated with weight loss drugs.
“Clinicians should adopt a balanced, evidence-based approach. Optometrists are increasingly seeing patients who use GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medicines have important systemic benefits, but emerging evidence suggests an increased risk of rare ocular events, including non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy, or NAION.
“Clinicians should not create unnecessary alarm but should ensure patients understand what symptoms matter and when to act. Clear safety netting advice is essential. Patients should be advised to seek urgent assessment at eye casualty or A&E if they experience sudden painless loss of vision in one eye, visual field loss, reduced colour vision, or sudden unexplained blur.
“Optometrists should advise that GLP-1 medicines are only used when prescribed by a doctor who can assess the overall risks and benefits. Decisions about starting, stopping or switching treatment sit outside optometric scope.”
Daniel Hardiman-McCartney MBE FCOptom, Clinical Adviser at The College of Optometrists