AREDS2 study confirms safety, efficacy of supplements

A recent report¹ from the second age-related eye disease study (AREDS2) confirms the AREDS2 formulation is safe for use over a decade and is effective in delaying the progression of intermediate to late, sight-threatening age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

These results offer patients and healthcare practitioners reassurance about the long-term use of the formulation of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that are routinely offered to patients at risk of AMD progression.

The AREDS² and AREDS2³ studies showed the combination of antioxidants and zinc can delay AMD progression and loss of moderate visual acuity.

Through a series of complex protocols, different formulations were tested.

Beta carotene was found to increase the risk of lung cancer in current and recent smokers, and was replaced by lutein and zeaxanthin which increased effectiveness by 18%.

Surprisingly, omega-3 fatty acids offered no benefit on AMD progression.

In the 10-year follow-up of AREDS2, all participants received the revised AREDS2 formulation including lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins C and E plus zinc and copper, and results were analysed according to originally assigned AREDS2 treatment groups.

The findings reaffirm the effectiveness and the safety of the supplement for long-term use.

The recommended daily AREDS2 formulation includes:

• Lutein (10mg)
• Zeaxanthin (2mg)
• Vitamin C (500mg)
• Vitamin E (400 IU)
• Zinc (80mg as zinc oxide)
• Copper (2mg as copper oxide)

Patients should consult with their doctor before taking dietary supplements. This is because some vitamins, whether obtained through food or supplements, can interfere with certain medications.

Learn more about supplements on our website.

References

1. Chew et al JAMA Ophthalmol 2022. doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.1640.
2. Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. Arch Ophthalmol 2001 119 1147-1436. doi:10.1001/archopht.119.10.1417.
3. AREDS2 Research Group. JAMA 2013 309 2005-2015. doi:10.1001/jama.2013.4997.

Posted: 7 July 2022