A recent report suggested that the emerging class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists might potentially lead to ischemic optic neuropathy, a type of "eye stroke." To investigate the safety profile of GLP-1 receptor agonists and their potential in cardiovascular treatment, the University of Hong Kong's (HKU) Faculty of Medicine recently completed a related study. After analyzing data from global randomized controlled trials involving over 80,000 patients with diabetes and heart disease, the research found no significant association between GLP-1 receptor agonists and the risk of ischemic optic neuropathy.
The research team analyzed data from global randomized controlled trials of more than 80,000 patients with diabetes and heart disease to examine the safety and application potential of GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Primarily used for treating type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists have also been applied in recent years to treat obesity and are a main component of "skinny pens." They mimic the function of the body's natural GLP-1 hormone to promote insulin secretion, inhibit glucagon secretion, delay gastric emptying to suppress appetite, thereby regulating blood sugar levels and aiding weight loss. With their increasing clinical use, potential side effects have garnered attention. Earlier reports indicated that using GLP-1 drugs might lead to "eye stroke" and serious ocular complications, where patients can experience sudden, painless vision loss and visual field defects, more commonly seen in individuals with diabetes, hypertension, etc., though relevant data also remains controversial.
In light of this, the HKU research team analyzed data from global randomized controlled trials of over 80,000 patients with diabetes and heart disease, representing the largest sample analysis in this field of study to date. The results showed no significant association between the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists and the risk of optic neuropathy. The team stated that these findings provide clearer evidence for clinical treatment planning, helping physicians make more comprehensive considerations when weighing the pros and cons of medication.
On another front, the team found in a separate study that for heart disease patients with obesity issues, combining appropriate medication with diversified weight-loss measures could improve the long-term success rate of atrial fibrillation catheter ablation surgery.
Analyzing data from 5,415 atrial fibrillation patients, they discovered that for obese patients, each 1% reduction in body weight was associated with a 6.3 percent reduction in the relative risk of postoperative atrial fibrillation recurrence, with sustained weight control being a key factor for surgical success. For heart disease patients with obesity, establishing a healthy lifestyle and other clinical intervention strategies for weight loss, combined with appropriate GLP-1 receptor agonists, may enhance the long-term success rate of atrial fibrillation catheter ablation surgery.
Dr. Will Chan Yap-hang, Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, HKUMed, who led the study, stated, "This research does not entirely rule out the possibility of minimal complication risks. Physicians still need to exercise prudent clinical judgment for each patient's situation. The key is not to overemphasize potential benefits while overlooking risks; a holistic view is essential."
