Blurry vision has not been reported as a side effect of Mounjaro, but you should contact your doctor right away if you notice blurred vision, spots in your field of vision, flashing lights, or a sudden loss of vision while using this treatment.
In addition, you should tell your doctor if you have a history of diabetic retinopathy before you start treatment. Treatment with Mounjaro and rapid control of your blood sugar levels may worsen your symptoms of diabetic retinopathy.
Without treatment, diabetic retinopathy can damage the blood vessels of your retina and lead to blindness. Your doctor (an ophthalmologist) will monitor you for worsening of your eye condition.
In the Phase 3 SURPASS-2 study of tirzepatide (Mounjaro) compared to semaglutide (Ozempic), diabetic retinopathy was reported in 2 patients receiving a 10 mg dose of tirzepatide.
- In general, rapid improvement in blood sugar (glucose) control has been associated with a temporary worsening of diabetic retinopathy (which may cause vision changes like blurry vision), but Mounjaro has not been studied in these patients.
Related: Mounjaro vs Ozempic: How do they compare?
What is diabetic retinopathy and its symptoms?
Retinopathy is a disease of the retina, which is found in the back of the eye. The retina helps to detect light. Changes in blood vessels of the eye can lead to retinopathy.
People at higher risk for retinopathy include people with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Retinopathy can begin slowly or quickly and may lead to partial or full loss of vision (blindness). If you have diabetes, you should get an annual eye exam to check the health of your eyes.
Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include:
- blurred vision
- sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- black spots in your vision
- flashing lights
- difficulty reading or seeing detailed work
An ophthalmologist can examine your eyes to determine if you have any vision problems related to retinopathy. Controlling your blood sugar and blood pressure can often help to slow or stop the progression of the disease.
Treatments for diabetic retinopathy are available that can help to repair existing damage and prevent vision loss. In addition to medications called VEGF inhibitors, alternatives include laser therapy, eye surgery, or use of corticosteroids in the eye.
What else causes blurry vision?
Blurry vision can commonly be caused by many other conditions, some serious and other not serious. You may have blurred vision if you have:
- vision trouble, like nearsightedness or farsightedness
- dry eyes or allergies
- a corneal abrasion (scratch)
- a corneal ulcer (open sore)
- contact with a chemical substance or foreign body
- a concussion
- an eye infection
- a brain tumor
- some migraine headache types
- age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- cataracts or glaucoma
- a detached retina
- a nerve disorder
- high or low blood sugar
This is not all the information you need to know about Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.