Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin E (specifically alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate, a water-soluble derivative of vitamin E) has been investigated for its potential role in supporting and protecting eye health, particularly in the context of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. The scientific rationale stems from Vitamin E’s potent antioxidant properties, which are thought to help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in ocular tissues—a key factor in the development of several degenerative eye diseases.

Some large clinical trials, most notably the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS and AREDS2), have examined Vitamin E as part of a combination antioxidant formula (with vitamin C, beta-carotene, zinc, and copper). These studies found that the antioxidant mix could modestly slow progression of intermediate to advanced AMD, but the evidence does not indicate that Vitamin E alone is effective for preventing or treating eye disease. There is little evidence supporting its use for other eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, or dry eye, and the polyethylene glycol succinate form specifically is not uniquely validated in eye treatment compared to other forms of Vitamin E.

In summary, while there is scientific rationale and some clinical evidence supporting the use of Vitamin E (as part of an antioxidant combination) for slowing AMD progression, the evidence for Vitamin E alone—and for the succinate/PEG derivative in particular—is limited. Thus, the overall strength of evidence for its use in eye problems is modest.

More about Vitamin E (alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate)
More about Eye Problems

Other ingredients used for Eye Problems

Other health conditions supported by Vitamin E (alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate)

Products containing Vitamin E (alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate)