GLP-1 Drugs May Lower Risk of Age-Related Vision Loss

New study finds GLP-1 medications may reduce risk of macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss in older adults.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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New research suggests that in patients without diabetes, GLP-1 medications may lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss in older US adults. The study followed over 91,000 participants without diabetes for 10 years, finding that those taking GLP-1 drugs for weight loss had an up to 91% lower risk of developing dry AMD compared to those taking non-GLP-1 weight loss medications.

Why it matters

AMD is a major public health issue, affecting nearly 20 million US adults. This study indicates GLP-1 medications, which are commonly prescribed for weight loss and diabetes, may have an additional benefit of preserving vision as people age. However, the study also found that for those with existing dry AMD, GLP-1s did not slow progression to the more severe wet form of the disease.

The details

Researchers from Oregon Health & Science University followed participants over 55 with no history of diabetes. Half were taking a GLP-1 drug for weight loss, while the other half were on a non-GLP-1 weight loss medication. After 5 years, the GLP-1 group had an 84% lower risk of developing dry AMD. This risk reduction increased to 87% after 7 years and 91% after 10 years.

  • The study followed participants over 10 years.
  • After 5 years, the GLP-1 group had an 84% lower risk of developing dry AMD.
  • After 7 years, the GLP-1 group had an 87% lower risk of developing dry AMD.
  • After 10 years, the GLP-1 group had a 91% lower risk of developing dry AMD.

The players

Dr. Benjamin Young

A corresponding study author and an assistant professor of ophthalmology at OHSU Health in Portland, Oregon.

Oregon Health & Science University

The university where the research was conducted.

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What they’re saying

“We were quite surprised by the strength of the association between GLP-1 medication use and the lower risk of developing macular degeneration.”

— Dr. Benjamin Young, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology

“We can't say that these medications directly caused the reduction in AMD risk. The findings suggest a possible link that should be tested in a randomized clinical trial.”

— Dr. Benjamin Young, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology

“I don't think this study should play any role in physicians recommending weight loss drugs to prevent macular degeneration. If a patient asks if it's safe to take if they think they are at risk for macular degeneration, I think these results might help physicians suggest it is likely safe to take in that situation.”

— Dr. Benjamin Young, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology

What’s next

Researchers plan to conduct a randomized clinical trial to further explore the relationship between GLP-1 medications and the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

The takeaway

This study suggests GLP-1 drugs may have a previously unknown benefit of lowering the risk of age-related vision loss, but more research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the mechanisms behind this potential protective effect.