Study Suggests GLP-1 Medications May Lower Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

A study published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism indicates that GLP-1 medications, commonly used for weight loss, may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in older adults with obesity. The research, led by Cheng-Hsien Hung from Chung Shan Medical University in Taiwan, analyzed data from 157,880 individuals. Results showed that those taking GLP-1 drugs, such as liraglutide, semaglutide, or tirzepatide, were 18% less likely to develop AMD compared to those using other weight-loss medications. The benefit increased to 30% when considering AMD cases without specifying the form. The researchers noted that while the findings suggest a potential protective effect, further studies are necessary to determine whether the observed benefits are due to the medications themselves or the weight loss associated with their use. They emphasized the need for longer studies to track the relationship between weight loss and eye health.