Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 13, 2026
06:49
The Rodent Model of Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy rNAION
Published on: November 20, 2016
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Association Between GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Ischemic Optic Neuropathy: A Meta-analysis.
Alleh Nogueira1, Tiago N O Rassi2, Asad Iqbal3
1Postgraduate Program in Cardiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
Diabetes Care
|January 7, 2026
Summary
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) may slightly increase the risk of nonarteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This study found a modest association, emphasizing the need for ongoing safety monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are widely used for type 2 diabetes and weight management.
- Emerging safety data necessitates investigation into potential adverse ocular events associated with GLP-1 RA use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) use and the risk of nonarteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases up to August 2025.
- Meta-analysis of fifteen longitudinal studies, including 8 trials with over 1.5 million patients, was performed.
- Odds ratios and absolute risk for NAION were pooled using random-effects models; overall ocular events were secondary outcomes.
Main Results:
- GLP-1 RA use was associated with a statistically significant increase in NAION risk (OR 1.70; 95% CI 1.23-2.36).
- The absolute risk of NAION in the GLP-1 RA group was 0.09%, translating to a number needed to harm of approximately 2,700.
- No significant association was found between GLP-1 RA use and overall ocular adverse events (OR 0.95; 95% CI 0.86-1.05).
Conclusions:
- GLP-1 RA use is linked to a modest elevation in the risk of nonarteritic ischemic optic neuropathy.
- The findings highlight the importance of long-term postmarketing surveillance for GLP-1 RAs.
- These risks should be considered alongside the established cardiovascular and metabolic benefits of GLP-1 RAs.
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