GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a class of medications primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes and, more recently, for weight loss. They work by mimicking the effects of a natural hormone called GLP-1, which is released in the gut after eating. This leads to several beneficial effects:
- Increased Insulin Secretion: GLP-1s stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin when blood sugar levels are high.
- Reduced Glucagon Secretion: They suppress the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar.
- Delayed Gastric Emptying: They slow down the movement of food from the stomach, promoting a feeling of fullness and reducing appetite.
- Weight Loss: By curbing hunger and slowing digestion, GLP-1s can lead to significant weight loss.
Commonly prescribed GLP-1 medications include semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus), liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda), dulaglutide (Trulicity), and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), which is a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist.
What is NAION?
Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is a medical condition that causes sudden, painless vision loss in one eye. It occurs due to a lack of blood flow to the front part of the optic nerve, which transmits visual signals from the eye to the brain. NAION is often noticed upon waking up in the morning. The vision loss can range from mild to severe and may involve blurring, color distortion, or a loss of peripheral vision.
Specific GLP-1s and Varied Findings:
- While semaglutide has been the primary focus, some studies have examined other GLP-1s.
- One study using the Cosmos dataset (Epic Research) reported that liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda) was associated with a higher likelihood of NAION (179% greater likelihood) compared to other diabetes medications, and insulin also showed an increased likelihood. Interestingly, this same study found no significant association with semaglutide or dulaglutide. This suggests that if a link exists, it might be more specific to certain GLP-1 molecules or other confounding factors.
Ochs Law Firm is currently reviewing NAION potential cases involving use of any GLP-1 (weight loss) drug. Consults are always free.
