Science & Research

The EyePromise supplement is based on the AREDS II formulation of eye vitamins, which is currently being studied in clinical trials. The original AREDS formulation was shown in clinical trials to have a beneficial effect in reducing the rate of progression of dry age-related macular degeneration to the wet form of the disease. The results of the AREDS II study are still pending, and the efficacy of the EyePromise supplement will be better understood when those results are released.

Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure has not been proven to directly affect the development or progression of macular degeneration. The cornea and lens absorb most of the UV rays that enter the eye. However, studies on the effect of sunlight exposure on macular degeneration have been mixed, and some studies indicate that sunlight exposure can increase the risk of dry age-related macular degeneration. Sunlight contains multiple forms of light rays in addition to UV rays. In addition, sunlight exposure can worsen cataracts, which also contribute to decreased vision especially in macular degeneration patients. Therefore, wearing a hat or sunglasses would be recommended.

It is true that having a family history of macular degeneration increases a person’s risk of developing macular degeneration; however, just because family members had this disease does not mean that one will also develop this condition. The fact that both you and your sister are in your 60s and have no signs of macular degeneration is extremely promising. Though a few genes have been identified that appear to be linked to development of macular degeneration, there is still a great deal to be learned about the genetics of the disease. As such, genetic testing is not a widespread practice. Even with knowing that you have specific genetic predisposition, there are no concrete measures currently available for preventing macular degeneration. Therefore, the best recommendation is to maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and diet rich in green, leafy vegetables, fish, fruits and nuts. This helps keep your body loaded with antioxidants, which are compounds that have proven to be beneficial in the fight against diseases like macular degeneration. Additionally, make sure that your eye doctor is aware of your family history of this eye disease. While most individuals are advised to have annual comprehensive eye examinations, you may wish to have them more frequently, perhaps 2-3 times a year, as your age increases. The earlier the signs of macular degeneration are detected, the better the options for treating and managing the disease as well as for preserving vision. Additionally, if you notice any change in your vision, no matter how slight, you should report it to your eye doctor. Ask him/her to also train you how to use the Amsler grid; which will help you monitor your own vision on a daily basis.

Yes, Dr. Marshall’s group is testing a form of laser therapy (2RT – Retina Regeneration Therapy, Ellex) that uses very short pulses of laser energy to stimulate the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Their initial study was conducted in diabetic patients with maculopathy, a condition that also impacts the macular region of the retina. Because the results of this study appear to be very promising, additional studies are planned with the aim of testing the usefulness of the procedure in patients with early macular degeneration. The long-term goal is to be able to utilize the procedure as a preventive measure in individuals with a strong family history of macular degeneration, possibly during their 40s, with hopes of delaying or preventing the onset of this eye disease.

Namenda (generic name: memantine) is a drug used to treat Alzheimer’s disease. If I understand your question correctly, I believe you are asking if there is any research concerning whether Namenda might also be useful in the treatment of macular degeneration. I have found no reports on any such research study.

Alterations in acetylcholine levels have been associated with Alzheimer’s and macular degeneration, and many Alzheimer’s drugs actually work by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which increases the effects of acetylcholine. Interestingly, Namenda is different, as the effects of Namenda are independent of acetylcholine and acetylcholinesterase.

It is not proven that nicotine patches can cause macular degeneration; however, from the science of the disease, it is currently a theoretical risk, but it has not been directly studied in human patients. Chantix, or varenicline, is a nicotine receptor partial agonist. It does not fully stimulate nicotinic receptors, but can have a partial effect. Therefore, it could potentially bind to the nicotinic receptors in the macula and cause some of the same effects as nicotine patches. Again, this is a theoretical risk.

Scar tissue is fibrous tissue that forms as a result of the healing process. Unfortunately, once it forms in the retina, it causes irreversible loss of vision as it replaces the normal retina tissue (retinal pigment epithelium, photoreceptors, etc.) that are necessary for vision. There is no known method to reduce scar tissue in the retina once it has formed.

There is no evidence that eating peanuts can cause macular degeneration. The only proven vitamin regimen to decrease the risk of dry macular degeneration progression is the AREDS formulation, which does contain vitamin E. There is evidence that taking too much vitamin E can increase overall mortality, but the tolerable upper intake level is 1000 milligrams/day and the AREDS formulation contains less than half that amount (400 international units—which equals 400 or fewer milligrams depending on the exact form of vitamin E used). However, it is important that you make your decision based upon discussions with your personal doctor(s), who are familiar with your medical history and current medication regimen, all of which could impact their assessment concerning supplementation.