AREDS2 Supplements
Also known as Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 Vitamins, Macular Degeneration Vitamins, AREDS 2 Formula, Eye Vitamins for AMD
Bottom Line
Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 supplements can lower the chance that certain people with age-related macular degeneration progress to advanced disease. They do not prevent macular degeneration in healthy eyes.
Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) supplements are a specific mix of vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin. They are used for certain stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) 1.
The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) trial tested whether adding lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids improved the earlier formula. Lutein plus zeaxanthin replaced beta-carotene for many people 2.
These supplements are not a general eye vitamin. They are mainly for intermediate age-related macular degeneration or advanced disease in one eye 1.
Cost And Insurance
Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) supplements are usually bought without a prescription. Insurance coverage is uncommon.
Compare labels, not just brand names. The bottle should match the studied ingredient list and doses your eye doctor recommends.
Who Benefits
The clearest benefit is for people with intermediate age-related macular degeneration or advanced disease in one eye. It is not meant for healthy eyes.
It also does not cure macular degeneration or restore lost vision. The goal is to lower the chance of progression 1.
Ingredients
The common Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) formula includes vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
Many versions avoid beta-carotene. That matters because beta-carotene can be a concern for current and former smokers 2.
Safety And Medicine Checks
High-dose supplements can interact with medical conditions and medicines. Ask your doctor before starting if you take blood thinners or have kidney, liver, or stomach problems.
Bring the bottle to your eye visit. Your doctor can check dose, ingredient list, smoking history, and whether your macular degeneration stage fits.
Common Questions About AREDS2 Supplements
Next Steps
- 1Ask your eye doctor whether your macular degeneration stage qualifies.
- 2Choose a bottle that matches the ingredient list your doctor recommends.
- 3Avoid beta-carotene formulas if you smoke or used to smoke unless your doctor says otherwise.
- 4Bring all supplements and medicines to your next eye visit.
- 5Call your retina doctor urgently for new distortion, dark central spots, or sudden vision changes.
Find specialists for AREDS2 Supplements
Board-certified ophthalmologists who treat AREDS2 Supplements.
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