(AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, yet preventive strategies remain limited. A study in Frontiers in Endocrinology evaluated whether SGLT2i, widely used for T2D, influence the risk of AMD and other age-related ocular diseases.

Using data from the TriNetX global health research network (2013–2025), the retrospective cohort included 12,156 matched adults aged 60 years or older with T2D who initiated either SGLT2i or DPP4i. Outcomes assessed were non-exudative, exudative, and atrophic AMD, as well as cataract, ocular hypertension, and primary open-angle glaucoma.

Compared with DPP4i, SGLT2i use was associated with significantly lower risks of non-exudative AMD (HR 0.64; 95% CI 0.49–0.84) and exudative AMD (HR 0.56; 95% CI 0.33–0.96). A slight increase in cataract risk was observed (HR 1.08; 95% CI 1.02–1.15), while no significant differences were found for atrophic AMD, ocular hypertension, or glaucoma.

These findings suggest SGLT2i may offer retinal protection in older adults with type 2 diabetes. Early recognition of this benefit could guide future mechanistic studies and prospective trials to clarify their impact on ocular health.