What are the Benefits of Added Vitamins (AREDS/AREDS2) in AMD?
- Miss Shakti Thakur
- Apr 3
- 4 min read
The original research on the usefulness of vitamins in AMD was conducted by the National Eye Institute (NEI), Bethesda, USA, from 1992-1996. It found that supplements reduced the risk of progression from intermediate to advanced vision loss by about 25% over 5 and 10 years. It was not useful in the earliest or very advanced stages. Adding omega-3 fatty acids did not have an additive beneficial effect.
What was the AREDS Study About?
The study included over 3,500 participants with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), from early to advanced stages. Over 90% were already taking multivitamin supplements. At least one eye per person had good vision at the start. Results were assessed at 5 and 10 years. Different variations of the formula or no active ingredient were given randomly to participants who then maintained that over the study period. The active ingredients were vitamin C, vitamin E (both antioxidants), beta-carotene (which the body turns into vitamin A), and zinc. Vitamin A deficiency or excess can harm the retina. Zinc plays a role in cellular growth, healing, and biochemistry.
What About AREDS2?
The formula was modified after the results were assessed. Beta-carotene was omitted because it was found to increase the risk of lung cancer in ex- or former smokers. The pigments lutein and zeaxanthin, which occur naturally in the macula and protect against the harmful effects of UV and blue light, were added. The dose of zinc was reduced. Omega-3 fatty acids were added as they are known to be protective for heart disease. Only patients with intermediate or late AMD were included.
Results
Participants taking the full AREDS formula had a 25-30% reduction in developing advanced AMD compared with those taking no active ingredient. This was a 19% reduction in central vision loss. Of this group that benefited, those with intermediate AMD or advanced AMD in one eye had the greatest risk reduction: 34% progressed compared with 44% not taking the formula. Adding omega-3 had no additional beneficial effect. Lutein and zeaxanthin (but no beta-carotene) had some benefit compared with the AREDS original formula.
Do Regular Multivitamins Have the Same Effect?
The recommended AREDS2 formula is not the same as multivitamins. It has an additional beneficial effect. Although many foods have the components, diet alone is unlikely to provide the same level of benefit. This is because the body is often unable to absorb the nutrients fully, even if adequate quantities are eaten. Digestion may weaken with age, and appetite often drops, making this a challenge.
There is a Useful FAQ Section on the NEI Website
Can My GP Prescribe This for Me?
In the UK, GPs are not permitted to prescribe this as per government restrictions. Self-purchase is advised. The easiest and most economical way is to use the internet.
UK AREDS2 Supplement Recommendations (Dated January 2025)
These vitamins match the formula used in the AREDS clinical trials. After considerable research, I have found the following to be suitable with appropriate comments added. I have also indicated price, ease of swallowing, and if vegan, as this may be important in the decision process. All are available on Amazon.co.uk.
Viteyes 2 SOFTGELS - AREDS2 Formula: 180 capsules, 2/day, £50.00 (56p/day)
Viteyes 2 Advanced - Vegan AREDS2 Based Formula: 180 capsules, 2/day, £66.00 (73p/day). Has Bilberry, selenium, alpha lipoic acid (Omega 3).
Vision Defender Eye Supplement: 90 capsules, 1/day, £51.00 (57p/day). Contains lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Vegan. Defender Plus has added mesozeaxanthin.
Naturelo Eye Health AREDS2 Formula with Antioxidant Carotenoids: 60 capsules, 1/day, £35.78 (60p/day). Contains vitamin E, zinc, copper, and selenium, OMEGA 3, 160IU Vit E, carrot powder, Eyebright, Goji berry, Lycopene, Grape seed.
Preservision AREDS 2 Formula + Multivitamin Eye Vitamins: 210 capsules, 2/day (105 days), £67.99 (65p/day). Contains vitamin K, thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin.
Preservision AREDS2 SoftGel: 120 capsules, 2/day, £40.50 (67p/day)
Macuboost All-in-ONE AREDS 2 Plus Formula Vegan easy swallow: 60 capsules, 1/day, £16.97 (28p/day). Add some extra Vit C. Has bilberry and pine bark. Only 6mg alpha TE (Vit E), 80 mg Vit C. Good if need low vit E.
Eyesight Plus AREDS2 Formula Vitamins for Eyes Vegan: 60 capsules, 1/day, £19.99 (33p/day). Only 100mg Vit C (supplement this with another source of Vit C). Has bilberry. Full 400 IU vit E.
MacuBright Advance Vegan: 180 capsules, 2/day, £24.99 (28p/day). Also bilberry. Full vit C and Vit E as per AREDS 2.
Special Cautions
If you are on a blood thinner, avoid one with added omega-3, which may further increase the risk of bleeding. You may opt for a lower dose of vitamin E, which may also interfere with anti-cancer drugs and sometimes cholesterol-lowering agents. Also, a low dose of vitamin E may be preferred if you have prostate cancer, although the evidence for this is conflicting.
You are strongly advised to check with your pharmacist so that any potential drug interactions can be identified and avoided. Potential side effects are already mentioned in the blog. The NEI FAQ link provides more details.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Readers should consult with their eye doctor or healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
Author Bio: Miss Shakti Thakur is a Consultant Ophthalmologist with nearly two decades of experience in Medical Retina. Specializing in macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease, she prioritizes personalized patient care and evidence-based treatments.
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