Supplemental nutrition for retinal health: Evidence based analysis of commercial preparations in India

PURPOSE: Antioxidants have been lately postulated as supportive and prophylactic supplements for various retinal disorders, especially age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Forty-eight brands of such supplements containing lutein and zeaxanthin are available in India. The aim of the study was to assess the market leaders in supplements for ophthalmology in view of AREDS recommendations. METHODS: Descriptive review of top-selling supplements for eye health were compared to the contents of the AREDS-recommended levels. RESULTS: None of the top 10 selling brands had exact or near similar composition as recommended in the AREDS-2 study, which is the most widely accepted level-1 evidence in AMD prevention. CONCLUSION: Physicians prescribing these antioxidants, especially for the prevention of advanced AMD, should be vigilant and aware of the contents of the prescribed brands.