Investigating the Link Between Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonists and Non-arteritic Ischemic Optic Neuropathy: A Case Report of Semaglutide-Induced Optic Neuropathy.

Cureus2026PMID: 41769577

View on PubMed DOI: 10.7759/cureus.102472

Plain Language Summary

Case report of NAION in a relatively young patient with T2DM on semaglutide, with notable feature of complete symptom resolution after semaglutide discontinuation. The reversibility of visual symptoms after drug withdrawal strengthens the causal plausibility of semaglutide as the NAION trigger. Contributes an important case to the NAION pharmacovigilance literature—documenting that semaglutide-associated NAION may be reversible if the drug is stopped promptly, with implications for monitoring protocols and discontinuation guidance.

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are newer medications used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity. There is growing evidence of a potential association between the use of GLP-1 RAs and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Here, we report a case of NAION in a young patient with diabetes receiving semaglutide (GLP-1 RA), which showed a complete resolution of symptoms after discontinuing the GLP-1 RA. This case adds to growing concerns, given emerging evidence suggesting an increased incidence of NAION among users of GLP-1 RAs. Further studies are required to clarify causality, identify risk factors, and develop monitoring strategies for patients receiving GLP-1 RAs.

Authors

Bakheet, Mashair; Chaudhary, Attiqa

Keywords

diabetes mellitusglp-1 raglp-1 receptor agonistnaionnon-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathyoptic neuropathysemaglutide