PreserVision AREDS 2 contains high levels of a specific combination of vitamins and minerals recommended by the NEI to help reduce the risk of progression of moderate-to-advanced AMD.

The only people who supposedly “benefitted” from this drug are people who have intermediate AMD in one eye, and advanced AMD in the other. No other type of patients had any benefit. Even if a doctor accepts the results of this study, he should only recommend this drug to this small subgroup of patients.

Yes. Nine out of every ten participants in the AREDS2 clinical trial (the trial that the PreserVision AREDS 2 formula is based on) were taking multivitamins along with the AREDS2 formulation. Researchers noted no significant side effects.

Take 2 soft gels daily with food; 1 in the morning, 1 in the evening.

Here are the six top vitamins that promote eye health and the best ways to get them.

• Vitamin A (and beta carotene) Vitamin A is absolutely essential for vision, Johnson says.
• Vitamin E. Vitamin E is also essential for eye health.
• Vitamin C.
• Zinc.
• Omega-3 fatty acids.

The amount of Vitamin A in PreserVision should have no effect on your kidneys. Taking large doses of Vitamin A can cause worsening of high blood pressure, but the amount you are taking should not be a problem.

Vitamin A Vitamin A is essential for good vision. It is a component of the protein rhodopsin, which allows the eye to see in low-light conditions.

Vitamin A Vitamin A (and beta carotene) Vitamin A is absolutely essential for vision, Johnson says. A deficiency can cause night blindness, particularly among older individuals, and if it progresses, permanent blindness can result. Beta carotene is thought to be important because it's a precursor of vitamin A.

Family members of people with macular degeneration often ask whether they should take AREDS2 vitamins or lutein/zeaxanthin. While these are safe to take over a period of at least ten years (with the recent AREDS2 10-year-follow-on study), it is not known whether they would be safe for several decades.

Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Upset stomach or throwing up.
• Diarrhea.
• Constipation.

Take 2 soft gels daily with food; 1 in the morning, 1 in the evening.

Take with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.