A common question that patients ask is whether they should be using "Eye vitamins." In addition, there are several brands of vitamins designed for the health of the macula, and the choices can be overwhelming for patients.
The AREDS study (age related eye disease study) was a large clinical trial sponsored by the National Eye Institute. The goal of the study was to determine if taking a specific combination of vitamins and minerals could delay the progression of age related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataract.
The study revealed that taking this specific combination of vitamins did indeed delay the progression of AMD to the advanced stage but did not delay the formation of cataracts.
Today, the formula of AREDS has been modified to removed the beta carotene component from the original formula. Also, the AREDS II trial is underway. This trial uses, in addition to the original composition, lutein and zeazanthin and Omega-3 fatty acids. The results of this trial have not yet been released, but many vitreoretinal physicians are recommending adding these additional supplements as well.
We do not recommend these vitamins to patients without AMD. There are no studies to show that it helps for other retinal conditions such as retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, epiretinal membrane, or macular hole. However, we do encourage all of our patients to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Many patients become overwhelmed in the drug store aisles with the vast array of choices. So, to make things easier for the patient, we sell Focus vitamins ( http://www.focusvitamins.com/) at our NC retina locations.
This is not intended to be medical advice. Please consult your physician or qualified medical personnel for advice.
Please visit us at www.ncretina.com
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