From celebrity endorsements to viral TikToks, certain diabetes and weight-loss injections have exploded in popularity as so-called “effortless” fixes. Originally designed to manage type 2 diabetes, these medications are now widely used off-label by influencers and celebrities seeking rapid body transformation — often without fully understanding the risks.
Experts at Overnight Glasses are issuing a warning: these prescriptions are just one example of everyday medications that may be quietly damaging your vision — and most people have no idea.
1. Weight Loss and Diabetes Medications:Possible Vision Loss Risk
Semaglutide, approved for diabetes and increasingly used for weight loss, has been studied for a potential link to non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) — a rare cause of sudden vision loss.
A 2025 multinational study found no significant association between semaglutide and NAION (PMID: 39491755). However, another large cohort study involving over 37 million patients reported a modest increase in risk under specific case definitions, with a hazard ratio of 2.27 compared to empagliflozin users (PMC11843465).
While findings remain mixed, experts recommend routine eye exams and immediate reporting of any vision changes during treatment.
2. Antidepressants: Slight Glaucoma Risk When Starting Medication
SSRIs, commonly used for depression and anxiety, have been linked to a small increased risk of acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG) — a condition that can cause sudden vision loss.
A large case–control study found that new, high-dose SSRI users were 5.8 times more likely to develop AACG in the first week of treatment. While rare, the risk was highest shortly after starting medication and may relate to serotonin’s effects on eye structures.(Kirkham & Seitz, 2023 – PMC10688421)
Experts advise patients beginning SSRIs to watch for symptoms like eye pain, blurred vision, or halos — and seek immediate care if they appear.
3. Birth Control Pills (For Contraception): Rare but Documented Vision Concerns
A 2017 review of clinical and case-based studies found that combined oral contraceptives (COCs) have been associated with a small number of ocular complications, including retinal vascular occlusion, ischemic optic neuropathy, and papillary edema. Though rare (estimated incidence: 1 in 230,000 users), these effects are considered serious.
Researchers note that hormonal effects on blood vessels and intraocular pressure may contribute to these complications, especially in users with a personal or family history of vascular issues.(Moschos & Nitoda, 2017 – PMC5638984)
Doctors recommend that individuals with migraines or a history of retinal disease consult with an eye care provider when considering long-term contraceptive options.
4. Allergy Medications (Antihistamines): Linked to Tear Reduction and Dry Eye Symptoms
Common allergy medications, particularly older oral antihistamines often used for hay fever or sleep, may reduce tear production — contributing to dryness, irritation, and discomfort in the eyes.
A 2020 clinical trial published in Vision and archived by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that a first-generation antihistamine significantly decreased tear volume after just one week of use compared to placebo and newer antihistamines. While tear film stability and intraocular pressure remained unaffected, the tear reduction could pose a concern for individuals with dry eye conditions. (Foutch et al., 2020 – PMC7355746).
The study concludes: “Systemic diphenhydramine use should be limited to increase the effectiveness of conventional [dry eye] therapies… Clinicians should have fewer reservations about recommending the use of loratadine concurrent with dry eye treatments.“
5. Acne Medications: Frequently Linked to Dry Eye
Acne medications derived from vitamin A analogues are effective for severe acne but are frequently associated with ocular side effects such as dry eyes, blepharitis, and contact lens intolerance.
A cross-sectional study found that 83.4% of users experienced eye dryness, while over half were never informed about these side effects by their physician, and nearly three-quarters were not referred for eye evaluation (AlMasoudi et al., 2022 – PMC9151350).
Experts recommend that patients starting treatment should be screened for recent refractive surgeries, counseled on the potential for eye discomfort, and prescribed lubricating drops to reduce symptoms and support eye surface health.
