Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin A has a scientifically validated role in supporting eye health, particularly in the context of preventing and treating certain eye conditions associated with deficiency, such as xerophthalmia and night blindness. Its use in treating or preventing eye infections specifically is primarily supported by its ability to maintain the integrity and function of epithelial tissues in the eye, which are critical barriers against microbial invasion. Several studies and public health interventions have shown that Vitamin A supplementation in populations at risk of deficiency significantly reduces the incidence and severity of ocular surface infections, such as conjunctivitis, by promoting healthy mucosal surfaces and enhancing immune function.

However, evidence directly supporting the use of Vitamin A (retinyl, not otherwise specified) for treating established eye infections in individuals who are not deficient is limited. Most clinical guidelines recommend Vitamin A supplementation for children in areas with high rates of deficiency to reduce morbidity and mortality from infectious diseases, including those affecting the eyes. The World Health Organization endorses periodic high-dose Vitamin A supplementation in children at risk of deficiency for this reason. In summary, while not an antimicrobial, Vitamin A plays an important role in ocular defense and is justified for infection prevention and adjunctive support in deficiency-related eye disease, but is not a direct treatment for infectious agents in the eye.

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