US researchers found what they described as a potential link between two weight-loss drugs and ophthalmic complications.

Writing in Jama Ophthalmology, researchers at the University of Utah said among a case series of nine patients taking the antidiabetic drugs semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (sold in the US as Mounjaro for diabetes treatment and Zepbound for weight loss and treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea), seven developed nonarteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy, one developed papillitis and one had paracentral acute middle maculopathy.

Despite being unable to demonstrate a causal link between these drugs and vision loss, researchers said it has been hypothesised the rapid correction of hyperglycaemia induced by these drugs, rather than a toxic effect, could be associated with the ophthalmic complications reported.