Best Supplements for AMD (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50, affecting the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. Research from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and AREDS 2 trials has shown that specific nutrient combinations can significantly reduce the risk of AMD progression. This guide covers the best supplements for AMD, focusing on clinically proven formulas and complementary nutrients that support macular health.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
- Best Overall: Provision AREDS 2 — clinical trial standard
- Best Value: AREDS 2 Select — enhanced carotenoid levels
- Best Premium: 1MD VisionMD — OptiLut lutein technology
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Ingredients | Form | Servings | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Provision AREDS 2 | Lutein 10mg, Zeaxanthin 2mg, C, E, Zinc | Capsules | 60 | Standard care |
| AREDS 2 Select | Lutein 25mg, Zeaxanthin 5mg | Capsules | 60 | High-dose support |
| 1MD VisionMD | OptiLut Lutein, Zeaxanthin | Softgels | 30 | Premium ingredients |
| Astaxanthin 10mg | Astaxanthin 10mg | Capsules | 180 | Added antioxidants |
| Zazzee Bilberry | Bilberry Extract 20:1 | Capsules | 120 | Circulation support |
| Pure Encapsulations | FloraGlo Lutein 10mg | Capsules | 120 | Allergen-free |
| HydroEye | GLA, Omega-3, Vitamin C | Softgels | 120 | Dry AMD |
| Natures Craft | Bilberry, Saffron, Ginkgo, Niacin | Capsules | 30 | Botanical blend |
1. Provision AREDS 2 Eye Vitamins — Best Overall
- Professional Grade Eye Supplement - A doctor-formulated vision eye supplement based on well known AREDS 2 study. This vision supplement includes Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and other eye health vitamins in veggie caps for great eye health support.
- The Provision Difference - Our eye vitamins for vision is a custom formula designed to support your eye health.
- Eye Vitamins for Vision - Our lutein Zeaxanthin vision complex supplement is a high-quality eye vitamin that can help support your vision. Our formula helps support your healthy eyes.
- VCaps Plus Premium Vegetarian Capsules - Our vision vitamin has AREDS 2 research components like Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Zinc, Copper, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C. Our enhanced vision supplement is made with premium ingredients with no unnecessary binders.
- Trusted for over 20 years - Made in the USA in an FDA registered facility, Visivite has been a trusted supplier of Doctor formulated Eye Vitamins for more than 20 years.
Provision AREDS 2 delivers the exact nutrient formula proven in clinical trials to reduce AMD progression by 25% over five years.
This formula contains lutein (10mg), zeaxanthin (2mg), vitamin C (500mg), vitamin E (400 IU), zinc oxide (80mg), and cupric oxide (2mg copper)—the precise combination tested in the landmark AREDS 2 study. Unlike the original AREDS formula, it uses lutein and zeaxanthin instead of beta-carotene, making it safe for current and former smokers. Each serving is 2 capsules taken once daily.
What We Like
- Exact AREDS 2 clinical trial formulation
- Recommended by ophthalmologists worldwide
- Safe for smokers (no beta-carotene)
What Could Be Better
- High zinc dose may cause nausea without food
- Two capsules per serving
Bottom Line: The definitive AMD supplement backed by the strongest clinical evidence available.
2. AREDS 2 Select Eye Vitamins — Best High-Dose Carotenoids
- Premium Macular Health Formula - Finally, a doctor-formulated macular eye supplement based on well known AREDS 2 study. This eye supplement includes Lutein, Zeaxanthin, and other eye health vitamins in veggie caps for maximum eye health support.
- Eye Vitamins for Macular Support - Our Lutein eye supplement macular is a custom formula designed to support your eye health as your age. This premium eye supplement macular formula is vegan-safe.
- Vitamins for Eye Health - Our macular supplements are high-quality eye vitamins that can help support your vision. Our lutein and zeaxanthin based formula helps keep your eyes at their maximum health.
- VCaps Plus Premium Vegetarian Capsules - Our eye vitamin has AREDS 2 research components like Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Zinc, Copper, Vitamin E and, Vitamin C. Our eye supplement is made of carefully selected premium ingredients with no unnecessary binders.
- Trusted for over 20 years - Made in the USA in an FDA registered facility, Visivite has been a trusted supplier of Doctor formulated Eye Vitamins for more than 20 years.
AREDS 2 Select provides significantly higher doses of lutein and zeaxanthin for maximum macular pigment support.
With 25mg of lutein and 5mg of zeaxanthin per serving—more than double the standard AREDS 2 amounts—this formula may benefit people with advanced AMD or those who have difficulty absorbing carotenoids. The supplement includes the complete vitamin and mineral profile from AREDS 2, including vitamins C and E, zinc, and copper. The enhanced carotenoid levels help build macular pigment density more aggressively.
What We Like
- 2.5x higher lutein than standard AREDS 2
- Complete antioxidant and mineral support
- May provide additional benefit in advanced AMD
What Could Be Better
- Higher doses not specifically tested in AREDS trials
- Premium pricing
Bottom Line: Ideal for advanced AMD patients seeking maximum carotenoid protection beyond standard formulas.
3. 1MD Nutrition VisionMD — Best Premium Ingredients
- AREDS 2-Based Formula : With 3 patented ingredients consisting of lycopene, mixed carotenes, and lutein with zeaxanthin, as well as protective vitamin E and astaxanthin, VisionMD uses the results of the groundbreaking National Eye Institute study on eye health and subsequent research to create a complete eye supplement.
- Promote Healthy Eye Function: Thanks to Lyc-O-Mato lycopene, EVTene mixed carotenes, and OptiLut with lutein and zeaxanthin, the advanced VisionMD formula offers a complete eye health supplement to help you stay sharp both now and later.
- Reduce Eye Strain and Fatigue: Blue light–the type of light generated by smartphones, e-readers, laptops, and other high-tech devices–can cause your eyes to get tired and even disrupt sleep. Potent antioxidants called carotenoids contained in the VisionMD formula can help support the eye’s natural defenses from blue light issues.±
- Encourage Long-Term Eye Health: Antioxidants help reduce oxidative damage to cells in the cone and rods in the eye. This in turn helps improve long-term eye health.§
- Improve Visual Acuity: Blurry vision can be the result of age-related eye health issues or simply tired eyes. With multiple nutrients shown to improve sharpness, long-term eye health, and eye stamina, VisionMD can help keep your future in focus.±§
VisionMD uses clinically studied OptiLut lutein for superior absorption and macular pigment density support.
This doctor-formulated supplement features OptiLut, a patented form of lutein that has been specifically researched for bioavailability and effectiveness. The formula supports vision health, reduces everyday eye strain, and addresses occasional dry eye symptoms common in AMD patients. The convenient once-daily softgel format improves compliance compared to multi-pill regimens.
What We Like
- OptiLut branded ingredient with clinical studies
- Once-daily convenient dosing
- Formulated by medical professionals
What Could Be Better
- Lacks full AREDS 2 vitamin/mineral profile
- Higher cost for premium ingredients
Bottom Line: Excellent for early AMD or as a carotenoid supplement to pair with separate AREDS 2 vitamins.
4. Algae Based Astaxanthin 10mg — Best Additional Antioxidant
- Precision Dosage: Our astaxanthin supplements are made with a carefully dosed 10mg serving and include natural vitamin E and soybean oil to enhance absorption so you get more out of every softgel
- Made from Microalgae: We make our astaxanthin nutritional supplements with a remarkable freshwater green algae called Haematococcus Pulvialis packed with beneficial compounds including carotenoids
- The Clear Difference: At Clear Formulas we believe transparency and trust are essential which is why our product is made in an FDA inspected American facility according to strict regulatory guidelines
- Made for All in Mind: We stand by our name and our formula is made without many common allergens and additives including corn, dairy, gluten, silicon dioxide and artificial preservatives
- The Choice is Clear: We believe health doesn't have to be hard - We make it simple with carefully designed supplements to support your needs whatever your age and lifestyle we've got you covered
This potent astaxanthin supplement crosses the blood-retinal barrier to deliver direct antioxidant protection to retinal cells.
Astaxanthin is a unique carotenoid that can penetrate the retina to protect photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium from oxidative damage. The 10mg dose in this algae-based formula represents a clinically studied amount for eye health support. While not part of the AREDS 2 formula, emerging research suggests astaxanthin may complement standard AMD treatment by providing additional antioxidant capacity.
What We Like
- Crosses blood-retinal barrier unlike most antioxidants
- Natural algae source for optimal absorption
- 6-month supply provides excellent value
What Could Be Better
- Not included in AREDS 2 clinical trials
- Benefits may take several weeks to manifest
Bottom Line: Consider adding to your AREDS 2 regimen for enhanced retinal antioxidant protection.
5. Zazzee USDA Organic Bilberry Extract — Best Circulation Support
- OUTSTANDING VALUE: Our Certified Organic Bilberry Extract contains 6000 mg strength per capsule, 120 capsules per bottle, AND is USDA Certified Organic – an amazing value! A single bottle contains a 4 month supply. Compare this to other leading brands that require 2 capsules per serving, contain less than 120 capsules, are not organic, and use a much less potent, non-extract powder. Our Certified Organic Bilberry Extract is a bargain not be found elsewhere!
- USDA CERTIFIED ORGANIC: Any Bilberry that is not CERTIFIED organic can be highly contaminated and even harmful. With Zazzee Naturals Certified Organic Bilberry, you can be sure your Bilberry is organic, all-natural, vegan, and non-GMO. More, while other competing products use various chemicals as fillers, binders, and excipients, our Organic Bilberry instead uses a unique blend of organic stabilizers.
- 6000 MG STRENGTH / POTENT 20:1 EXTRACT: Each capsule contains 6000 mg strength of Bilberry Extract from a potent, powerful 20:1 extract. Combine that with USDA Organic Certification, and our Extra Strength Organic Bilberry Extract is one of the strongest dosages available!
- NATURAL, VEGAN & NON-GMO: All ingredients, including the capsule, are 100% vegan. Our Extra Strength Bilberry Extract does not contain any sweeteners, artificial flavors, wheat, corn, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish, or tree nut ingredients. Enjoy the amazing benefits of our potent Bilberry Extract without worrying about what else might be hiding in each capsule!
- GOLD STANDARD PRODUCTION: Your health and safety mean everything to us. For that reason, our Extra Strength Bilberry Extract is manufactured in the USA, in a fully certified facility with adherence to good manufacturing policies and under the most stringent quality control. You can rest assured that you get the best value for your money!
This concentrated bilberry extract provides anthocyanins that support retinal microcirculation and vascular health.
Bilberry’s active compounds—anthocyanins—support healthy blood flow to the retina and may help protect retinal capillaries. The 20:1 concentration delivers 6000mg equivalent strength per capsule. European research has long supported bilberry for retinal health, and it may complement AREDS 2 supplements by supporting the vascular component of AMD. The USDA organic certification ensures no pesticides or contaminants.
What We Like
- High-potency 20:1 extract concentration
- USDA certified organic bilberry
- Supports retinal blood vessel health
What Could Be Better
- Not validated in AREDS studies
- Effects on circulation take time to develop
Bottom Line: Worthwhile addition to AREDS 2 for people concerned about retinal circulation and vascular AMD.
6. Pure Encapsulations Lutein & Zeaxanthin — Best Allergen-Free
- Eye Health: Pure Encapsulations Lutein/Zeaxanthin is an eye vision supplement that supports optical lens and retina health, making it ideal for eye health*
- Antioxidant Support: Zeaxanthin plus lutein help maintain the macular pigment's integrity, supporting overall vision function*
- Vegan-Friendly: Made with high-quality vegan ingredients backed by science, Pure Encapsulations Lutein/Zeaxanthin supplement is ideal for maintaining photoreceptor health and color vision*
- Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 1 eye support supplement capsule daily, with a meal
- Pure Difference: What we leave out matters, too; Pure Encapsulations products are FREE FROM common allergens, artificial or unnecessary ingredients, and GMOs
Pure Encapsulations delivers clinically studied FloraGlo lutein in a hypoallergenic formula free from common allergens.
This clean supplement provides 10mg of FloraGlo lutein and 2mg of zeaxanthin—the same forms used in many clinical trials. The vegetarian capsules contain no gluten, dairy, soy, GMOs, or artificial ingredients. While it lacks the full AREDS 2 vitamin and mineral complement, it’s ideal for people with sensitivities who can take separate vitamin C, E, zinc, and copper supplements.
What We Like
- FloraGlo lutein used in clinical research
- Free from all major allergens and additives
- 120-capsule bottle provides 4-month supply
What Could Be Better
- Missing AREDS 2 vitamins and minerals
- Requires additional supplements for complete AMD protection
Bottom Line: Best choice for AMD patients with allergies or sensitivities who need pure carotenoids.
7. ScienceBased Health HydroEye — Best for Dry AMD
- WORKS FROM THE INSIDE OUT: Nourishes the eye to support all three layers of the tear film
- CLINICALLY Tested: Shown to promote eye comfort and support a healthy ocular surface in a peer-reviewed clinical trial published in Cornea
- PROPRIETARY, BALANCED FORMULA: Precise blend of GLA, omega-3 EPA & DHA, and other key nutrients work together to help soothe dry eyes and support visual health
- FEATURES GLA – THE DRY EYE OMEGA: Provides a unique source of GLA from black currant seed oil—not found in fish or flaxseed oils—supported by multiple clinical studies for its role in dry eye
- FOR BEST RESULTS: Take four softgels daily; allow 30–60 days of consistent use to experience the full benefit, and continue daily for ongoing support
HydroEye’s clinically tested formula supports tear film health, addressing the dry eye symptoms that often accompany AMD.
This unique supplement combines GLA from black currant seed oil with omega-3 fatty acids to support the quality and stability of the tear film. Many AMD patients experience dry eye symptoms that can affect visual comfort and clarity. The formula includes vitamin C and works alongside AREDS 2 supplements to address both macular health and ocular surface issues.
What We Like
- Clinically tested for dry eye improvement
- GLA and omega-3 combination targets tear film
- Addresses common AMD-related dry eye
What Could Be Better
- Not a complete AREDS 2 replacement
- Requires 4 softgels daily (2 twice daily)
Bottom Line: Essential addition for AMD patients who also suffer from chronic dry eyes.
8. Natures Craft Eye Pressure Support — Best Botanical Blend
- Advanced Eye Pressure Supplement - Not all eye support supplements are created equally and we feature some of the most studied eye health vitamins for adults over 50 to provide fast & lasting relief
- Bilberry Supplement for Eyes - Bilberry extract for eyes is at the heart of our eye vitamins for seniors because this unique antioxidant is packed with protective and restorative nutrients
- What's Inside - Besides for bilberry extract our vision supplement for adults is made with Niacin Ginkgo leaf Black currant extract and saffron flower extract which work together to provide comfort
- Uncompromising Quality - Choose Natures Craft and opt for a trusted brand in a wide range of vitamins for eye health for adults and kids and help combat many common concerns of eyes and vision
- Natures Craft Quality - We are proud to be a leading name a variety of wellness supplements because we know how important our eye health is and how amazing these beneficial eye health vitamins are
This comprehensive formula combines bilberry, saffron, ginkgo biloba, and niacin for complementary eye health support.
Natures Craft includes several botanicals with emerging research for AMD. Saffron has shown promise in clinical studies for improving macular function. Ginkgo biloba supports ocular blood flow. Bilberry provides anthocyanin antioxidants. While not a replacement for AREDS 2, these botanicals offer additional pathways for supporting retinal health.
What We Like
- Includes saffron with AMD clinical research
- Multiple botanicals for comprehensive support
- Vegan capsule formula
What Could Be Better
- Not validated as primary AMD treatment
- Herbal ingredients may interact with medications
Bottom Line: Interesting adjunct to AREDS 2 for those interested in botanical approaches and saffron’s potential benefits.
How to Choose the Best AMD Supplement
Your first consideration should be whether you have the type and stage of AMD that benefits from supplementation. AREDS 2 formulas are proven to help people with intermediate AMD (category 3) or advanced AMD in one eye (category 4). If you have early AMD (categories 1-2) or no AMD, the clinical trials didn’t show significant benefit. Your ophthalmologist should categorize your AMD stage through dilated eye exams and specialized imaging.
Once you’ve confirmed you should take AREDS 2 supplements, select a product that matches the exact clinical trial formula or close to it. The proven combination is lutein (10mg), zeaxanthin (2mg), vitamin C (500mg), vitamin E (400 IU), zinc oxide (80mg), and copper (2mg). Some products vary these amounts slightly, but major deviations from the tested formula mean you’re not getting the proven benefit.
Consider whether you’re a current or former smoker. The original AREDS formula contained beta-carotene, which increased lung cancer risk in smokers. AREDS 2 replaced beta-carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin, providing the same AMD benefit without cancer risk. Even if you quit smoking years ago, choose the lutein/zeaxanthin version over any formula containing beta-carotene.
Think about your other health conditions and medications. The 80mg of zinc in AREDS 2 is much higher than typical intake and may cause nausea, especially on an empty stomach. If you have copper metabolism disorders like Wilson’s disease, you may need a zinc-free formula. The high-dose vitamin E can increase bleeding risk in people taking blood thinners like warfarin, so discuss this with your doctor.
Look for quality indicators like GMP manufacturing, third-party testing, and use of branded ingredients that have been studied clinically (such as FloraGlo lutein or OptiLut). While these products may cost more, you’re taking these supplements long-term, so consistency and reliability matter. Some cheaper products may not contain the stated amounts of active ingredients or may include contaminants.
Benefits of AMD Supplements
The AREDS 2 clinical trial followed over 4,000 participants for five years and demonstrated clear benefits for AMD progression. People with intermediate AMD who took the supplement formula reduced their risk of progressing to advanced AMD by approximately 25%. Those who already had advanced AMD in one eye reduced their risk of developing it in the fellow eye by about 19%. These benefits represent real preservation of vision and quality of life.
Lutein and zeaxanthin specifically accumulate in the macula, creating a protective layer of yellow pigment. This macular pigment absorbs harmful blue light wavelengths before they can damage photoreceptor cells. The carotenoids also function as antioxidants, neutralizing reactive oxygen species generated by the constant light exposure and high metabolic activity in the retina. Higher macular pigment optical density correlates with slower AMD progression.
The antioxidant vitamins in AREDS 2 formulas work throughout retinal tissues to combat oxidative stress. Vitamin C is abundant in the aqueous humor and lens, where it scavenges free radicals and regenerates other antioxidants. Vitamin E protects cell membranes in photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium from lipid peroxidation. Together, these vitamins create multiple layers of antioxidant defense.
Zinc supports numerous enzymatic processes essential for vision, including the visual cycle that allows photoreceptors to respond to light. The retina contains some of the highest zinc concentrations in the body. However, high-dose zinc supplementation can reduce copper absorption, which is why copper is included in the AREDS 2 formula. This prevents copper deficiency anemia and maintains the copper-dependent antioxidant enzymes that protect the retina.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can AREDS 2 supplements reverse AMD damage?
No, AREDS 2 supplements cannot restore vision already lost to AMD or reverse structural damage to the macula. Their proven benefit is slowing the progression of intermediate AMD to advanced stages. They work best as a preventive measure when started before significant vision loss occurs, not as a treatment for existing damage.
Do I need AREDS 2 supplements if I only have early AMD?
The clinical trials didn’t show significant benefit for people with early AMD (small or few drusen). AREDS 2 supplements are specifically recommended for intermediate AMD (medium or large drusen) or advanced AMD in one eye. Your eye doctor should determine your AMD category through examination and imaging before recommending supplementation.
Should I take AREDS 2 if I’m getting anti-VEGF injections for wet AMD?
Yes, continue AREDS 2 supplements even while receiving anti-VEGF injections for wet AMD. The supplements help protect your fellow eye and address the underlying dry AMD changes. They complement but don’t replace wet AMD treatments. Many retina specialists recommend AREDS 2 for all their patients with intermediate or advanced AMD regardless of treatment type.
How soon will I notice benefits from AMD supplements?
AMD supplements work over months and years, not days or weeks. Clinical studies measured benefits over 5-10 year periods. You won’t notice sudden vision improvements, but the supplements help slow disease progression that would otherwise occur. Some people report reduced eye fatigue within weeks, but the main benefit is long-term preservation of vision.
Can I get the same benefits from eating foods high in lutein?
While lutein-rich foods like kale, spinach, and egg yolks are excellent for overall health, reaching therapeutic doses through diet alone is extremely difficult. You’d need to consume several cups of cooked leafy greens daily to approach the 10mg lutein in AREDS 2 supplements. For people with AMD, supplementation ensures consistent intake of proven doses.
Are generic AREDS 2 supplements as effective as brand names?
Generic AREDS 2 formulas can be just as effective if they contain the same doses of active ingredients as the clinical trial formula. Check the supplement facts panel to verify it matches the AREDS 2 amounts: lutein 10mg, zeaxanthin 2mg, vitamin C 500mg, vitamin E 400 IU, zinc 80mg, copper 2mg. Quality manufacturing matters, so look for GMP certification.
Why did AREDS 2 replace beta-carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin?
The original AREDS formula included beta-carotene, but subsequent research showed it increased lung cancer risk by 18% in current and former smokers. AREDS 2 tested replacing beta-carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin and found the same AMD benefits without cancer risk. All modern formulas should use lutein/zeaxanthin instead of beta-carotene.
Do I need to take AREDS 2 supplements forever?
AMD is a chronic, progressive condition, so supplements are intended for lifelong use once started. The protective benefits require ongoing supplementation—stopping would likely result in faster disease progression. Think of AREDS 2 supplements like blood pressure medication: they work while you take them but don’t cure the underlying condition.
