Macular Degeneration Treatment
Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss for older adults. Treatment varies depending on the stage and type. Eating healthy, getting regular exercise, and quitting smoking can also help.
Vitamins (AREDS2 Formula)
Right now, there is no way to treat the dry form of AMD. However, some people might benefit from taking a certain combination of nutritional supplements. A large study found those people may slow the progression of dry AMD by taking these vitamins and minerals daily:
- Vitamin C (500 mg)
- Vitamin E (400 IU)
- Lutein (10 mg)
- Zeaxanthin (2 mg)
- Zinc (80 mg)
- Copper (2 mg)
- Your ophthalmologist can tell you if vitamins and minerals are recommended for you.
Injections
Injections of medications called anti-VEGF drugs help reduce the number of abnormal blood vessels in your retina and slow any leaking from these abnormal blood vessels.
- Medications
- AVASTIN (bevacizumab)
- EYLEA (aflibercept)
- Performed in the Office with Topical Anesthesia (Numbing Eyedrops)
- Often Need to be Repeated for Maximum Effectiveness
