GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Ocular Health: Benefits and Risks

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are injectable or oral medications primarily used for type 2 diabetes mellitus and, increasingly, for obesity management. They act by enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon, and promoting satiety, leading to improved glycaemic control and weight loss. The use of GLP-1 RAs has increased dramatically in recent years. For example, semaglutide prescriptions in the US rose from 2 million monthly in 2021 to 5 million in 2023, with a notable shift toward use in both diabetic and nondiabetic obese populations. Their impact on ocular health, however, is more complex, with both protective and adverse associations reported.