Macular degeneration is the most common cause of vision loss in the United States. 2 million people have advanced AMD and 8 million people are at a risk for advanced AMD. Many more patients have earlier stages of AMD that can lead to vision loss as they age.
In 2001, the National Eye Institute (NEI) concluded the original AREDS study (Age-Related Eye Disease Study). In this study, participants were given either a placebo or the AREDS formula- a combination of Vitamins C, E, beta-carotene and minerals zinc and copper. After 5 years, patients who took the AREDS combination had a 25% reduced risk of progressing to advanced AMD. Since the release of those results, many eye physicians have recommended patients with AMD begin taking these vitamins.
In 2006, the NEI began another study, the AREDS2. This compared patients taking the original AREDS formula to patients taking various versions of AREDS with or without additional supplements. The additional supplements studied were omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, and zeaxanthin. The trial also looked at reducing the level of zinc from the original formula and excluding beta carotene from the formula. (Studies have suggested that beta-carotene increases the risk of lung cancer in former smokers.)
The results of AREDS2 were released earlier this month. Let's review:
1. Omega-3 fatty acids- The study showed no benefit to adding omega-3 to the formula
2. Lutein-Zeaxanthin- There was no benefit of adding the Lutein and Zeaxanthin by themselves. But, adding them did negate the removal of beta-carotene. Also, patients who had diets low in these nutrients did gain benefit from having them in the formula.
3. Reducing zinc- there was no increased risk of progression to advanced AMD in patients receiving the reduced level of zinc.
So, what formula should you be taking? In light of the new results, we suggest discussing this with your eye care professional because the answer could depend on your stage of AMD, your smoking status, and your dietary habits.
This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. Please seek the advice of a qualified medical professional.
