Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2025

Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic Clamps in Conscious, Unrestrained Mice
Published on: November 16, 2011
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and the eye
1Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
Purpose Of Review:
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) have gained popularity as an antidiabetic and weight loss agent with protective cardiovascular outcomes, but attention to the potential ocular side effects has grown. This review aims to consolidate the existing evidence on the effects of GLP-1RA on conditions such as diabetic retinopathy (DR), nonarteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), and dry eye disease (DED).
Recent Findings:
The effect of GLP-1RA on DR is controversial but likely linked to rapid correction of hemoglobin A1c levels. GLP-1RA may be associated with increased risk of NAION, although the mechanism remains elusive. Protective effects have been shown against glaucoma, AMD, and DED possibly due to its anti-inflammatory properties, and these medications may decrease intracranial pressure in IIH.
Summary:
As the usage of GLP-1RA increases, further dedicated ocular safety trials are key to determining the risk of eye-related complications. Given the limited prospective evidence available and the proven systemic benefits of the medication, as well as its potential protective effects on certain eye diseases, GLP-1RA use should generally not be discouraged in most patients. Regular ophthalmologic follow up is important in patients considered at higher risk of ocular adverse events.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists
GLP-1, when administered in high doses intravenously, triggers insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and restores normal insulin secretion. However, its rapid inactivation by...
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Glinides
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: α-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Acarbose and miglitol are...
Hypoglycemia and Glucagon
Hormones Regulating Blood Glucose
In addition to accelerating glucose uptake and utilization, insulin has...

