Vision Woes: The Unexpected Side Effect of Popular Weight Loss Drugs

Some people taking popular weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro are facing serious eye problems. Researchers found nine cases where people lost their vision after taking these medicines. These drugs, originally made for diabetes, have become super popular for weight loss. They work by copying a hormone that makes you feel full. But, there's a catch. Some users are experiencing rare eye conditions like NAION, papillitis, and paracentral acute middle maculopathy. These conditions can cause sudden vision loss or blind spots. The patients were mostly in their 50s and 60s, and had other health issues like diabetes, obesity, and heart problems. These conditions can also cause vision problems on their own. Doctors think the rapid changes in blood sugar caused by the drugs might be the culprit. But, they're not sure yet. The drugs are still being studied for other uses, like treating kidney disease, liver disease, and even addiction. But, the eye problems are a red flag. Doctors are urging people to get checked out if they notice any vision changes while on these drugs. The drugs' popularity is booming, with 12% of Americans having tried them. But, this side effect is a reminder that these drugs aren't without risks. The most common side effects are stomach issues, but some users report weird stuff like nerve pain and personality changes. The drugs' labels have been updated to include new uses, like reducing heart attack and stroke risk. But, the eye problems are a serious concern. The study's authors want more research to figure out if these drugs are definitely causing the vision problems. They're not sure yet, but they're keeping an eye on it.