Retinitis pigmentosa(RP)is a degenerative blinding disease characterized by the loss of the function of photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium. The activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress is a cellular defense regulatory mechanism, aimed at restoring the stability of endoplasmic reticulum function by self-regulation through a series of molecular signaling pathways. Rhodopsin mutation is a common cause of RP. Misfolding and retention of rhodopsin in endoplasmic reticulum and apoptosis of photoreceptor cells and retinal pigment epithelial cells induced by endoplasmic reticulum stress can lead to the occurrence and development of RP. This paper discusses endoplasmic reticulum stress and its role in the pathogenesis of RP and the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibitors, traditional Chinese medicine and chemical drugs in regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress in RP treatment was summarized, in order to provide theoretical basis for endoplasmic reticulum stress in the clinical application of RP and provide new ideas for the research, prevention and treatment of RP.