Mounjaro Eye Side Effects Lawsuit [2024 Update]

The Mounjaro Eye Side Effects Lawsuit is an active lawsuit

See If You Qualify

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a prescription injection medication used to improve blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. The popular drug has been linked to a number of health concerns. Recent lawsuits filed against the manufacturer of Mounjaro indicate that the use of the drug may increase a patient’s risk of developing serious eye injuries, including vision loss, blurry vision, and blindness. Litigation is ongoing, with more lawsuits expected to be filed over the coming months as a result of the drug’s widespread use. Individuals experiencing eye side effects are encouraged to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.  

Mounjaro Eye Side Effects Lawsuit Overview

Lawsuits filed against the manufacturer of Mounjaro, Eli Lilly and Company, allege that the company failed to warn users about the risk of blindness and other injuries associated with the use of the drug. Patients report developing serious eye problems such as Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION), which can cause sudden and irreversible blindness.   

Legal documents note that the original labels lacked warnings of severe side effects, from gastrointestinal issues to vision problems. Eye injuries potentially linked to Mounjaro have had a serious impact on patients’ mental and financial health. Affected individuals are encouraged to contact King Law to discuss whether they meet the criteria to take legal action.  

Mounjaro and Vision Changes – 2024 Update

July 2024: A study linking patients with type 2 diabetes who were taking glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) to an increased risk of a rare and serious eye condition known as Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). The study was published in JAMA Ophthalmology on July 3, 2024.  

June 2024: Mounjaro manufacturer issued an Open Letter warning patients against using the drug for cosmetic weight loss and counterfeit versions of the drug. The letter also noted that individuals who experience changes in vision while taking the medication should contact their healthcare provider. 

About the Mounjaro Eye Side Effects Lawsuit:

What Are the Vision Changes From Mounjaro?

Research now indicates that GLP-1 receptor agonists may be linked to a serious and potentially irreversible eye condition known as NAION. NAION or Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy is characterized by decreased blood supply to the optic nerve. The optic nerve is a bundle of fibers that connects the eye to the brain, enabling vision. The condition, frequently referred to as a “stroke of the optic nerve,” the restriction of blood flow can lead to sudden vision loss.  

NAION is the second most common form of optic nerve damage. It has an estimated annual incidence rate between 2.3 to 10.2 per 100,000 people over 50 years of age in the United States. A recent study found that patients with type 2 diabetes taking a GLP-1 receptor agonist (such as Mounjaro) may be at an increased risk for developing the debilitating condition. Patients who develop NAION may have permanent, irreversible vision loss and are encouraged to seek legal consultation. 

How Does Mounjaro Cause Vision Problems?

A new study shows that patients with type 2 diabetes who are taking GLP-1 receptor agonists may be at an increased risk for serious vision problems, including NAION. While further studies are needed to determine the exact cause, it may be linked to fluctuating blood sugar levels, diabetic retinopathy, low blood sugar, and other issues common to patients taking the medication. Mounjaro patients are encouraged to engage in regular monitoring from a healthcare provider and to take prompt action for any vision-related problems. 

Connections between Mounjaro and vision problems:  

• Fluctuating Blood Sugar Levels: Mounjaro helps to regulate blood sugar levels. Significant fluctuations, if not well-controlled, can lead to diabetic retinopathy. High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels in the retina, potentially causing vision problems and blindness if untreated. 

• Diabetic Retinopathy: Patients with diabetes are at increased risk for diabetic retinopathy. While Mounjaro itself is not yet directly linked, its role in managing diabetes can impact the risk. 

• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Mounjaro may cause a patient’s blood sugar to drop; if blood sugar drops too low, it can lead to blurred vision. Symptoms usually resolve once blood sugar levels normalize. 

• Side Effects of Other Medications: Patients with type 2 diabetes often take multiple medications to manage the condition. Some medications, in combination with Mounjaro, might contribute to vision problems, making it essential to monitor all medications and their interactions. 

• Allergic Reactions or Adverse Effects: Although rare, some patients might experience allergic reactions or adverse effects from Mounjaro. These reactions could potentially impact vision. Any unusual symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. 

Regular eye exams and blood sugar monitoring can help manage and prevent vision-related issues. It is imperative for Mounjaro patients experiencing vision problems to consult with a healthcare provider if they experience vision problems.  

Mounjaro Vision Problems and Eye Side Effects

Mounjaro patients may be at an increased risk for adverse side effects such as sudden, painless vision loss in one eye due to NAION, temporary blurry vision from fluctuating blood sugar levels, and an increased risk of eye infections. Regular eye examinations and regular blood sugar monitoring can help to minimize side effects. Individuals experiencing these conditions should also speak with a qualified attorney to discuss potential compensation. 

Potential vision problems and eye side effects linked to Mounjaro: 

• Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION): A rare condition causing sudden, painless vision loss in one eye due to reduced blood flow to the optic nerve. 

• Blurry Vision: Fluctuating blood sugar levels (glucose levels) may cause changes in the lens of the eye, causing temporary blurry vision. 

• Diabetic Retinopathy: Poorly managed diabetes can cause diabetic retinopathy, which may damage the blood vessels in the retina and result in vision loss. While Mounjaro does not directly cause this condition, its role in managing diabetes is crucial. 

• Increased Risk of Eye Infections: Diabetes increases the risk of infections, including eye infections. Symptoms include redness, pain, and vision changes.

• Hypoglycemia-Related Vision Issues: Low blood sugar may cause temporary vision problems, such as blurred vision. These symptoms usually resolve once blood sugar levels normalize. 

• Potential Allergic Reactions: While rare, there is a potential for serious allergic reactions while taking Mounjaro. Signs of an allergic reaction may include swelling or itching around the eyes.  

Mounjaro users, particularly those with a history of eye issues, are encouraged to engage in regular eye examinations to monitor and manage potential eye-related side effects. Regular monitoring and management of blood sugar levels and eye health are essential to minimize the risk of these conditions. 

Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION) 

A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology in July 2024 indicates that patients with type 2 diabetes who are taking GLP-1 receptor agonists may be at an increased risk for developing a serious and debilitating condition known as Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). NAION occurs when there is insufficient blood supply to the head of the optic nerve. The reduced blood flow can cause sudden vision loss, which usually occurs without warning and is painless. Risk Factors include age (it usually affects people over 50), diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, and anatomical predispositions such as a small cup-to-disc ratio. 

Symptoms of NAION include sudden vision loss, which ranges from mild to severe in one eye. The condition may also cause visual field defects where the patient may report missing portions of vision and disc swelling. While additional research is needed to determine how GLP-1 RAs put a person at an increased risk for NAION, it may be linked to fluctuations in blood pressure and blood sugar, diabetes-related vascular issues, and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) caused by Mounjaro. Interactions with other medications may also cause these complications.  

NAION is a serious condition that may involve sudden vision loss due to ischemia of the optic nerve. While Mounjaro is not directly known to cause NAION, its effects on blood sugar and potential impacts on vascular health in diabetic patients could theoretically contribute to an increased risk. 

Myodesopsias (Eye Floaters) 

Another potential condition that Mounjaro patients should be monitored for is myodesopsias. Myodesopsias or eye floaters are characterized by small, dark, shadowy shapes in the field of vision. They may appear as dots, lines, cobwebs, or other shapes and are most noticeable against bright, plain backgrounds like a clear sky or white wall. 

Several potential causes of eye floaters exist, including age-related vitreous shrinkage. The vitreous, the jelly-like substance inside the eyes, can shrink and become more liquid with age. These changes may lead to clumps or strands that cast shadows on the retina. Another cause may be inflammation of the uvea (middle layer of the eye) or bleeding in the vitreous due to diabetes, hypertension, or injury. Finally, retinal tears or detachments and certain eye medications injected into the vitreous can lead to floaters.  

New research suggests that patients taking Mounjaro may also be at risk for the condition since poorly controlled diabetes can lead to diabetic retinopathy, damaging retinal blood vessels. Additionally, rapid or inadequate blood sugar regulation by Mounjaro might stress retinal vessels, causing bleeding or changes that manifest as floaters.  

Furthermore, drug-caused hypoglycemia can lead to temporary visual disturbances, including floaters, due to changes in retinal blood flow or temporary retinal ischemia. In rare cases, medications can trigger inflammation in the body, including the eyes, potentially contributing to floaters through uveitis. It is strongly recommended that individuals experiencing floaters seek prompt treatment from their healthcare provider. 

Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) 

Dry eye syndrome (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly, leading to inflammation and damage to the eye’s surface. Individuals taking Mounjaro are encouraged to seek medical attention if they experience dry eye symptoms.  

Symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome include: 

• Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in the eyes. 
• Stringy mucus in or around the eyes. 
• Light sensitivity. 
• Redness of the eyes. 
• The sensation of a foreign body in the eye. 
• Trouble wearing contact lenses. 
• Trouble seeing while driving at night. 
• Watery eyes due to irritation. 
• Blurred vision or eye fatigue. 

Dry eye syndrome is caused by decreased tear production caused by age, medical conditions (diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders), or medications (antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications). Another risk factor is increased tear evaporation due to wind, smoke, dry air, infrequent blinking (reading, computer use), and eyelid problems. Finally, an imbalance in the composition of a tear can cause dry eyes.  

Further research is needed to understand the link between Mounjaro and Dry Eye Syndrome, and it may be related to Mounjaro’s role in managing blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Dry eye syndrome is not a commonly listed side effect of the drug but may be linked indirectly. The medication can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, leading to dehydration and reduced tear production.  

Additionally, fluctuations in blood sugar levels can affect tear production and corneal health. Furthermore, since Mounjaro mimics GLP-1 hormone effects, it may influence bodily fluid balance and potentially impact tear production and evaporation. While rare,  medications can trigger systemic inflammation, which could affect the ocular surface and contribute to dry eye symptoms. 

Eye Twitching and Abnormal Blinking 

Eye twitching, also known as eyelid twitching or myokymia, is a repetitive, involuntary spasm of the eyelid muscles. The condition typically affects the upper lid but can also occur in the lower lid. It is generally harmless and temporary but can be annoying and disruptive. 

Individuals with type 2 diabetes who are taking Mounjaro may be at risk of developing eye twitching or abnormal blinking. It is believed that Mounjaro’s tendency to cause electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, blood sugar fluctuations, stress, and fatigue may increase a person’s risk. 

Eye twitching, or abnormal blinking, is a painful condition characterized by involuntary, repetitive spasms of the eyelid. It typically affects one eye but can occur in both. The twitching or abnormal blinking lasts for a few seconds to a minute and can recur over days or weeks. It is usually not painful but can be bothersome. 

Causes of Eye Twitching: 

• Stress: Increased stress levels can lead to muscle spasms, including those in the eyelid.
• Fatigue: Lack of sleep or general fatigue can trigger eye twitching.
• Caffeine: Excessive consumption of caffeine can cause muscle spasms.
• Eye Strain: Prolonged screen time or visual tasks can strain the eyes and lead to twitching.
• Dry Eyes: Dryness and irritation of the eyes can cause the eyelid to twitch.
• Nutritional Imbalances: Deficiencies in certain nutrients, such as magnesium, can cause muscle spasms.
• Allergies: Eye allergies can lead to twitching due to irritation and inflammation. 

While not a direct side effect of Mounjaro, its overall effect could contribute to conditions that trigger eye twitching. The potential link between Mounjaro and eye twitching may be caused by electrolyte imbalances resulting from gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These common issues can cause low magnesium levels, which can trigger muscle spasms, including eye twitching. If Mounjaro causes significant changes in blood sugar levels, it might contribute to muscle spasms, including those affecting the eyelids. 

Other Vision Problems Associated with Mounjaro 

In addition to the side effects listed above, Mounjaro patients may also be at risk for other eye injuries, such as blurry vision caused by blood sugar fluctuations and diabetic retinopathy as a result of poorly controlled diabetes. 

Other vision problems potentially linked to Mounjaro:  

• Blurry Vision: Fluctuations in blood sugar levels may affect the lens shape of the eye, causing temporary vision changes, such as blurry vision, until glucose levels stabilize.

• Diabetic Retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes where high blood sugar levels damage the retina’s blood vessels. While Mounjaro helps manage blood sugar levels, the risk remains if levels are not well-controlled, making regular eye exams crucial.

• Macular Edema: Poorly controlled diabetes can cause fluid leakage into the macula (the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision). Mounjaro can help manage blood sugar but cannot eliminate the risk of macular edema or swelling in the macula if diabetes is inadequately controlled.   

• Allergic Reactions: Similar to other allergic reactions in the body, an allergic reaction to Mounjaro could manifest in the eyes. Although rare, it could cause redness, swelling, itching, and tearing in the eyes.

• Visual Disturbances: Defined as changes in color perception, seeing flashes of light, or other unusual visual phenomena, visual disturbances could result from blood sugar fluctuations, blood pressure changes, or other systemic effects of Mounjaro.  

• Ocular Migraines: Ocular migraines involve visual disturbances such as flashing lights, zigzag patterns, or temporary vision loss. They are potentially triggered by stress, hormonal changes, or medications affecting blood vessels, though the exact cause is unclear. 

• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Defined as inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. While not directly linked to Mounjaro, changes in immune function or systemic health while on the medication could increase susceptibility to infections or inflammation. 

New Research Links GLP-1 Agonists to NAION

A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology on July 3, 2024, found that type 2 diabetes patients prescribed GLP-1 agonists were at an increased risk for developing a rare and debilitating eye condition called NAION. The retrospective matched cohort study involved 16,827 patients evaluated by neuro-ophthalmologists from 2017 to 2023. It was the first study to report an association between GLP-1 and NAION 

The study divided patients with type 2 diabetes or who were overweight/obese into groups based on whether they were prescribed a GLP-1 medication or non-GLP-1 RA medications. Of the 710 patients with type 2 diabetes, 194 were on GLP-1 medication, and 516 were on non-GLP-1 RA medication. There were 17 NAION events in the GLP-1 group compared to 6 in the non-GLP-1 RA group. The cumulative incidence was 8.9% for GLP-1 vs. 1.8% for non-GLP-1 RA over 36 months, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 4.28 (95% CI, 1.62-11.29; P < .001). 

There were 979 patients in the overweight/obese group; 361 were on GLP-1, and 618 were on non-GLP-1 RA medications. There were 20 NAION events in the GLP-1 group vs. 3 in the non-GLP-1 RA group. The cumulative incidence was 6.7% for GLP-1 compared to 0.8% for non-GLP-1 RA over 36 months, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 7.64 (95% CI, 2.21-26.36; P < .001). 

In short, the research showed that patients with type 2 diabetes or who were overweight/obese and taking GLP-1 receptor agonists were at a higher risk of developing NAION. While the study had a large sample size and underwent manual review by experienced neuro-ophthalmologists, additional research, such as larger multicenter studies or prospective clinical trials, is required to confirm findings and explore causality.  

Percentage of Mounjaro Users Experiencing Vision Changes

GLP-1 is associated with a fourfold higher risk of NAION when used to treat type 2 diabetes. When used to treat obesity, it is associated with a sevenfold higher risk of NAION. In recently published research, 710 patients with type 2 diabetes were studied.

Of patients taking GLP-1, 8.9% developed NAION compared to 1.8% of patients taking other medications. In the obesity group, 979 patients were studied; 6.7% of patients taking GLP-1 developed NAION compared to 0.8% of patients taking other medications.

How to File a Mounjaro Eye Side Effect Lawsuit

Patients taking Mounjaro who begin to experience eye side effects are encouraged to contact an attorney to discuss whether they have a valid claim for compensation. Mounjaro’s eye side effect lawsuits can be challenging without the help of a qualified law firm. It is imperative to take action immediately to ensure you receive the recovery you deserve. 

1. Contact an Attorney: The first step in a Mounjaro lawsuit is to determine eligibility. Eligibility requirements may include proof of Mounjaro usage and the ability to show that your eye injuries were caused by the medication. To see if you meet the qualifications, it is recommended that you speak to an attorney. During the free case review, an attorney will help assess the validity and value of your claim. They will also help manage the legal process.

2. Gather Evidence: An attorney can aid you in collecting evidence that may help to substantiate your claim, including medical records and witness testimonies. 

3. File the Claim: Once the evidence is collected, your attorney will file the claim in the appropriate jurisdiction. They will ensure that all legal requirements are met, including adhering to the statutes of limitations or state-specific deadlines that may apply to your case. 

4. Enter into Negotiations: Once the case is filed, the lawsuit may enter the Discovery phase. Your attorney may also enter into negotiations with the other party to achieve a fair and full settlement. If a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial.

5. Prepare for Trial: At trial, both parties will be able to present their case. If the results are unfavorable, the decision may be appealed. 

As a client, it is important to supply your attorney with your full medical records and provide supporting documentation. Then, you should allow the law firm to represent you and file the claim in the appropriate courthouse.  

Contact a Mounjaro Eye Side Effects Lawyer

Did you suffer eye side effects after taking Mounjaro? You may be eligible to file a claim against the manufacturer. At King Law, our attorneys have extensive experience handling Mounjaro lawsuits and holding pharmaceutical companies accountable for putting dangerous drugs on the market. Contact our office today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)