20 second summary
While there is currently no cure for wet AMD, advances in treatment offer hope to individuals who want to manage their condition and maintain a good quality of life.
One of the areas of ongoing research and development is the use of tablets for wet AMD, which promise to complement or even replace invasive treatments like injections.
In this guide, we will explore how tablets for wet AMD are being developed, the role of wet AMD supplements, and how you can take proactive steps to manage your condition.
What is wet age-related macular degeneration?
Wet AMD is a condition that affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. Unlike the more common dry form of AMD, wet AMD progresses quickly and can cause rapid vision loss if left untreated.
Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels form beneath the retina, leaking fluid and blood that damage the macula.
This leads to blurred vision, dark spots, and, in some cases, severe loss of central vision, which makes daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognising faces difficult.
In the UK, Wet AMD is a serious concern, particularly for the ageing population. While early detection and treatment can help slow the disease, it’s vital to understand the full spectrum of treatment options available, including emerging tablets for Wet AMD.
Current treatments for wet AMD
Traditionally, wet AMD is treated with anti-VEGF injections, which block vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to stop the abnormal growth of blood vessels. Common anti-VEGF medications include:
- Ranibizumab (Lucentis)
- Aflibercept (Eylea)
- Bevacizumab (Avastin)
- Brolucizumab (Beovu)
These treatments are effective in slowing vision loss and, in some cases, improving vision. However, the injections must be administered directly into the eye every month or two, which can be uncomfortable and inconvenient.
As a result, many patients are seeking alternatives, including oral treatments, such as tablets for wet AMD, that may offer a less invasive option in the future.
The role of supplements in managing wet AMD
While medical treatments like injections are essential, dietary supplements also play a crucial role in managing wet AMD.
For people with early or intermediate stages of the disease, wet AMD supplements can help slow the progression and maintain eye health.
AREDS2 formula: The gold standard
The AREDS2 (Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2) formula is a well-known and widely recommended supplement for those with AMD. This formula, developed through extensive research, contains specific vitamins and minerals that have been shown to slow the progression of AMD. The key ingredients include:
- Vitamin C (500 mg)
- Vitamin E (400 IU)
- Lutein (10 mg)
- Zeaxanthin (2 mg)
- Zinc (80 mg)
- Copper (2 mg)
This combination of antioxidants and minerals helps protect the macula from further damage.
While AREDS2 supplements are not a cure for wet AMD, they are highly recommended by ophthalmologists in the UK as part of a comprehensive management plan.
Lutein and zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are two antioxidants found naturally in the macula. They play a crucial role in protecting it from damage caused by light and oxidative stress.
For individuals with Wet AMD, ensuring an adequate intake of lutein and zeaxanthin is important, and they are key ingredients in most wet AMD supplements.
Eating foods like spinach, kale, and other leafy greens can boost these antioxidants, but for many, supplements are a more practical option.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, have been linked to better eye health and may reduce the risk of developing advanced AMD. Fish oil supplements are a popular choice for individuals looking to support their retinal health.
While omega-3s are not a primary treatment for Wet AMD, they are a valuable part of any wet AMD supplement regime, especially when combined with other nutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin.
Essential vitamins for wet AMD
In addition to the specific nutrients found in the AREDS2 formula, several other vitamins play a vital role in supporting eye health, especially for those with wet AMD.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to support overall eye health.
For people with early or intermediate stages of the disease, wet AMD supplements can help Recent studies have suggested that individuals with higher levels of vitamin D may have a reduced risk of developing AMD.
In the UK, where sunlight exposure can be limited, especially during the winter months, taking a wet AMD vitamin containing Vitamin D can be particularly beneficial.
B vitamins
Research has also pointed to the benefits of B vitamins—particularly B6, B12, and folic acid—in reducing the risk of AMD. These vitamins help to lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, which is also associated with wet AMD. Including these vitamins in a wet AMD supplement can further protect eye health.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, particularly in low-light conditions. For individuals with wet AMD, ensuring an adequate intake of Vitamin A, whether through diet or supplements, can help support the retina and slow the progression of vision loss.
Living with wet AMD
Living with wet AMD can be challenging, but there are many ways to adapt and maintain independence. From assistive technologies to lifestyle changes, individuals with wet AMD can continue to lead fulfilling lives with the right support.
Assistive technologies and low vision aids
In the UK, organisations like the Macular Society provide access to a range of assistive technologies and low vision aids, including:
- Magnifying glasses and reading aids: These tools make it easier to read and complete tasks that require attention to detail.
- Screen readers: These devices can read aloud text displayed on a computer or smartphone screen, making digital information accessible to those with vision impairment.
- Electronic magnifiers: These devices enlarge printed text onto a screen, allowing for easier reading.
These aids, combined with vision rehabilitation services, can help individuals adapt to vision loss and continue to carry out daily activities.
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Dietary and lifestyle changes
While treatments like tablets for wet AMD are crucial, lifestyle changes can also make a significant difference in managing the condition. Key recommendations include:
- Stop smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for AMD, and quitting can slow the progression of the disease.
- Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can support eye health.
- Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can improve overall health and reduce the risk of vision loss.
Making these changes, along with following medical advice and taking the right supplements, can improve outcomes for those living with wet AMD.
Emerging research and data on wet AMD in the UK
In the UK, wet AMD remains a leading cause of vision loss, particularly among people aged 60 and older.
For people with early or intermediate stages of the disease, wet AMD supplements can help ReAccording to the Macular Society, over 600,000 people in the UK are affected by AMD, with wet AMD responsible for most cases of severe vision loss.
Public health campaigns have emphasised the importance of early detection and intervention, as these can significantly improve outcomes.
The British Journal of Ophthalmology recently published a study showing that patients who receive treatment within three months of diagnosis have a better chance of preserving their vision. This highlights the importance of regular eye check-ups, especially for individuals at higher risk, such as those with a family history of AMD or smokers.
Protect your vision with the right support
Managing wet AMD can be daunting, but with the right combination of treatments, supplements, and lifestyle adjustments, it is possible to slow the progression of the disease and maintain quality of life.
For those looking to further protect your vision, Pure Opticals Eyesight Plus is an ideal supplement. It combines the essential nutrients needed to support macular function, including lutein and zeaxanthin, making it a convenient and effective option for those managing AMD.
