Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin A
For the health condition: Macular Degeneration

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin A has some scientific basis for its inclusion in the management and prevention of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), but its role is limited and less robust compared to other antioxidants. The rationale arises mainly from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and its follow-up (AREDS2), which investigated high-dose antioxidant supplements (including beta-carotene, a vitamin A precursor) for reducing the risk of progression from intermediate to advanced AMD. The original AREDS formula contained vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, and beta-carotene. Results showed a modest reduction in the risk of advanced AMD for those at high risk, but beta-carotene was later removed from the recommended formula due to an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers and ex-smokers, and because lutein and zeaxanthin (other carotenoids) appeared to be safer and possibly more effective.

Vitamin A is essential for normal vision and retinal health, as it is a component of rhodopsin—the light-sensitive pigment in the retina. However, there is insufficient evidence that supplementing with vitamin A (or beta-carotene) alone prevents or treats macular degeneration in the general population. The scientific support for vitamin A’s use is thus limited to its role within the broader AREDS research context, and current guidelines do not recommend high-dose vitamin A specifically for AMD prevention or treatment, especially given potential toxicity and cancer risk in certain populations.

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