Medications and Their Impact on Diabetic Eye Disease  

Original Article: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2468653024005827

Protective Role of GLP-1 RAs and Fenofibrates

A study found that certain medications, like GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and fenofibrates (a medicine that can lower the level of cholesterol in the blood), can lower the risk of diabetic macular edema (DME) in patients with type 2 diabetes. DME is a serious complication of diabetes that can cause a person to lose their vision. GLP-1 RAs reduced the risk by 23%, and fenofibrates by 17%. These findings suggest these drugs may offer added benefits beyond their primary uses for managing diabetes and cholesterol.  

Increased Risk of eye problems linked to Calcium Channel Blockers

The study revealed that patients using calcium channel blockers, often prescribed for high blood pressure, had a 66% higher risk of developing DME compared to those who did not take these medications. Thiazolidinediones, another diabetes treatment, showed no significant effect on DME risk.  

Next Steps in Diabetes and Eye Care

Researchers believe GLP-1 RAs could offer a convenient treatment for diabetes by lowering blood sugar, reducing weight, protecting the heart, and potentially preventing DME. However, this study’s reliance on medical records, rather than direct eye exams, highlights the need for clinical trials to confirm these benefits and better understand risks like those associated with calcium channel blockers.