Taking AREDS2 supplements delays the progression of geographic dry age-related macular degeneration.

There is now new, compelling evidence that taking AREDS2 supplements can slow the progression of geographic atrophy (GA) in dry age-related macular degeneration. A recent study, currently (10/2024) in press in the journal “Ophthalmology”, examined the effect of AREDS2 dietary supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zeaxanthin, as well as antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, on the disease. It was shown that taking these supplements could significantly slow the progression of the degenerative process toward the fovea, the area of sharpest vision (link: https://www.aaojournal.org/action/showPdf?pii=S0161-6420%2824%2900425-1)
The study confirms earlier indications that certain nutrients may play a protective role in macular degeneration and could change the clinical approach to treating patients with dry age-related macular degeneration. Unfortunately, European approval of the products already approved in the US for the treatment of dry age-related macular degeneration—pegcetacoplan (Syfovre(R)) from Apellis Pharmaceuticals and avacincaptad pegol (Izervay(R)) from Astellas Pharma—has still not been granted. The EMA’s final decision—following the companies’ appeal against the rejection of approval—is expected in the fourth quarter of 2024.
The preventive benefit of these dietary supplements offers patients new hope of slowing disease progression and preserving vision for longer until a specific therapy is also available in Europe. We will be happy to advise you on selecting the products that are right for you.

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