12338 Risk Of Retinopathy In Patients With Type 2 Diabetes On Semaglutide

Abstract Disclosure: A. Gupta: None. M. Nassar: None. H. Ghanim: None. Title: Risk of Retinopathy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes on SemaglutideBackground: The use of semaglutide in patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR) has raised safety concerns. While previous studies, including a meta-analysis and the SUSTAIN trial, suggested an association between rapid HbA1c reduction and retinopathy progression, recent data question the increased risk with semaglutide. Our study investigates this risk of intensive therapy benefits for the prevention of DR. Methods: This retrospective cohort study utilized TriNetX electronic health records, analyzing 117,693,426 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on anti-hyperglycemic drugs. We divided patients into those with and without a history of retinopathy, further subdividing them by treatment (Semaglutide, Sitagliptin, and Empagliflozin). After matching for confounders, we analyzed the incidence and progression of retinopathy among 336,338 Semaglutide, 578,117 Sitagliptin, and 434,552 Empagliflozin patients without a history of DR, as well as a cohort with history. Results: In patients without a prior history of DR, semaglutide showed a significant reduction in DR incidence over three years compared to sitagliptin and empagliflozin (p<0.0001). However, in those with a history, the reduction was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Patients with mild DR on Semaglutide experienced fewer progressions to severe stages (p<0.0001), while outcomes in severe cases were inconclusive.Discussion: Semaglutide may lower the risk of developing DR in patients with T2DM without a prior history of DR and potentially stabilize or improve mild conditions without worsening severe retinopathy. The observed effects could influence treatment choices, emphasizing the need for individualized patient management. Conclusion: Semaglutide appears safe regarding retinopathy risk in patients with T2DM, offering protective benefits in those without history and not exacerbating conditions in those with prior DR. This underscores the drug's potential for comprehensive diabetes management without compromising ocular health. Presentation: 6/3/2024