Semaglutide Usage May Double the Risk of Developing Neovascular Macular Degeneration

Recent research links the use of semaglutide, a medication primarily prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity, to a significantly increased risk of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in older adults. Conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto, the study analyzed healthcare data from Ontario spanning 2020 to 2023, involving over 139,000 seniors aged 66 and above with diabetes. Among these, more than 46,000 had been on GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide for at least six months, while others had no such exposure.

The findings showed that individuals treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists faced a more than twofold increase in the risk of developing nAMD, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 2.21. Notably, the risk amplified with longer durations of use, reaching an HR of 3.62 for those on the medication for over 30 months. Additional factors such as advanced age and previous cerebrovascular events also contributed to heightened risk.

Neovascular AMD is a leading cause of sudden, irreversible vision loss among the elderly in Western countries. While dry AMD is more prevalent, the neovascular form causes most cases of severe central vision impairment due to abnormal blood vessel growth damaging the macula.

Semaglutide, marketed under names like Ozempic and Wegovy, has revolutionized the treatment of diabetes and weight management, with its cardiovascular benefits widely promoted. However, retinal side effects were not initially anticipated. Earlier clinical trials, such as SUSTAIN 6 and PIONEER 6, had reported increased diabetic retinopathy complications among semaglutide users; however, research on its long-term impact on retinal health remains inconclusive.

This recent population-based study, published in JAMA Ophthalmology, suggests that long-term exposure to GLP-1 receptor agonists may influence pathways associated with retinal diseases like AMD. It emphasizes the importance of regular eye examinations for patients on prolonged therapy to monitor potential ocular effects. Further investigation is essential to determine whether these risks are directly caused by the medication or are related to other disease interactions.

As semaglutide prescriptions continue to rise, understanding its full range of effects, including ocular health risks, becomes critical. Healthcare providers should consider these findings when prescribing and monitoring treatment regimens for older adults with diabetes.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-semaglutide-linked-neovascular-macular-degeneration.html