Episode 094: GLP-1 Drugs and NAION: What Patients and Their Eye Doctors Need to Know

<p>Could Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro or Zepbound affect the optic nerve?</p><p>In this special episode of <strong>The Eye-Q Podcast™</strong>, neuro-ophthalmologist Dr. Rani Banik examines the rapidly evolving evidence surrounding GLP-1–based medications and <strong>nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, or NAION</strong>.</p><p>You’ll learn what NAION is, which patients may already be more susceptible, why optic disc anatomy and optic disc drusen matter, how diabetes and obstructive sleep apnea complicate the risk-benefit discussion, and what the major studies actually tell us.</p><p>Dr. Banik also discusses proposed mechanisms, a real-world patient experience with bilateral sequential NAION, practical guidance for patients and physicians, and the recent litigation surrounding these medications.</p><p>The key message: <strong>association is not the same as causation, and relative risk is not the same as absolute risk.</strong></p><p>Do not discontinue a prescribed GLP-1 medication without discussing the risks and benefits with your treating clinician.</p><p><strong>If this episode was helpful, follow The Eye-Q Podcast™, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who takes—or prescribes—these medications.</strong></p>