Best Macular Degeneration Supplements (2026)
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50. The landmark AREDS 2 study found that specific combinations of lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins C and E, zinc, and copper can reduce the risk of AMD progression by approximately 25%. These are the best macular degeneration supplements available, ranging from clinically-studied AREDS 2 formulas to enhanced versions with additional eye-supporting nutrients.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Feature | Form | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natures Craft Eye Pressure Support | Bilberry + Eye Health Blend | Capsules | Best Overall | 9.5/10 |
| PreserVision AREDS 2 Formula | Exact AREDS 2 Formula | Softgels | Best Clinically Proven | 9.4/10 |
| Advanced Bionutritionals Vision Formula | Advanced Multi-Nutrient Complex | Capsules | Best Premium | 9.3/10 |
| Provision AREDS 2 Eye Vitamins | Lutein + Zeaxanthin Complex | Capsules | Best Value AREDS 2 | 9.2/10 |
| AREDS 2 Select Eye Vitamins | Veggie Capsule AREDS 2 | Capsules | Best Vegetarian Option | 9.1/10 |
| Astaxanthin 12mg & Lutein 40mg | 14-in-1 Eye Formula | Softgels | Best Enhanced Formula | 9.0/10 |
| Easy Absorption Astaxanthin 10mg | Astaxanthin from Algae | Softgels | Best Antioxidant Boost | 8.9/10 |
| Snap Supplements Eye Health Capsules | Lutein + Bilberry + Lycopene | Capsules | Best Multi-Carotenoid | 8.8/10 |
1. Natures Craft Eye Pressure Support – Best Overall
- 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
A comprehensive eye health formula combining bilberry extract with key macular-supporting nutrients for broad-spectrum vision protection.
Natures Craft Eye Pressure Support delivers a targeted blend of bilberry extract, lutein, zeaxanthin, and additional eye-supporting compounds in vegan capsules. Bilberry provides powerful anthocyanin antioxidants that support retinal health and microcirculation in the eye, while lutein and zeaxanthin build protective macular pigment. The formula is designed for adults concerned about age-related eye changes, including those with early to intermediate AMD.
- Pros:
- Bilberry extract provides potent anthocyanin antioxidants
- Vegan-friendly capsules
- Supports both macular health and eye pressure
- Cons:
- May not match exact AREDS 2 dosing
- Results take 2-3 months of consistent use
Best for: Adults seeking comprehensive eye health support that goes beyond the standard AREDS 2 formula.
2. PreserVision AREDS 2 Formula – Best Clinically Proven
- AREDS 2 Recommended Formula: Preservision AREDS 2 Eye Vitamins contain lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, copper, vitamin C, and vitamin E to exactly match the nutrient formula recommended by the National Eye Institute based on the Age Related Eye Disease Study 2 to help reduce the risk of moderate to advanced AMD progression in adults aged 50 and over
- Eye Support Vitamin: PreserVision, the #1 AREDS brand, is based on 20 years of clinical studies conducted by the NEI.
- Ocular Health: Take 2 soft gels daily with food; 1 in the morning, 1 in the evening. This supplement for adults provides essential vitamins with high-quality, clinically proven nutrients to help support ocular health.
- Bausch + Lomb Eye Care: Eye experts since 1853, Bausch + Lomb offers trusted products from eye vitamins and supplements to lubricant eye drops and lens care
- Most Studied Brand: The most studied eye vitamin brand based on AREDS and AREDS2 clinical studies
The #1 doctor-recommended eye vitamin brand that contains the exact nutrient levels studied in the landmark AREDS 2 clinical trial.
PreserVision AREDS 2 from Bausch + Lomb is the gold standard for macular degeneration supplementation. Each serving delivers exactly the levels used in the National Eye Institute’s AREDS 2 study: 10 mg lutein, 2 mg zeaxanthin, 500 mg vitamin C, 400 IU vitamin E, 80 mg zinc, and 2 mg copper. The formula is beta-carotene free, making it safe for current and former smokers. Available in easy-to-swallow minigel softgels with a 60-day supply per bottle.
- Pros:
- Exact AREDS 2 formula backed by NIH clinical research
- #1 doctor-recommended brand for AMD
- Beta-carotene free — safe for smokers
- Cons:
- Higher zinc content (80 mg) may cause digestive discomfort
- Does not include additional eye-supporting nutrients like astaxanthin
Best for: Patients with intermediate AMD who want the exact formula proven to reduce progression risk by 25% in the AREDS 2 study.
3. Advanced Bionutritionals Advanced Vision Formula – Best Premium
- VISION SUPPORT SUPPLEMENT: Advanced Vision Formula contains 15 nutrients to support healthy vision. This supplement will help visual strain and relieve tired eyes. This eyesight supplement contains vitamin A & Citrus Bioflavonoid Complex.
- ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS: This supplement will help you support the health of your eye with Astaxanthin (cross blood-retina barrier), Bilberry (night vision), Lutein (carotenoid for eye health), Citicoline (neuroprotective support), Beta Glucan (promote eye health and function), Zeaxanthin (carotenoid that supports your eyes), Gingko Biloba (blood flow), and L-Taurine (support the retinas).
- RELIEVE TIRED EYES & EYESTRAIN: This vision support supplement also contains 8 more ingredients shown to protect your eyes from free radical damage. Join all the people that use this supplement to support the health of their eyes as they age.
- MADE IN THE USA: Advanced Bionutritionals is manufactured in the USA from globally sourced ingredients.
- QUALITY INGREDIENTS: Advanced Bionutritionals is a cutting-edge line of nutraceuticals and made in the USA. Our formula is vegan and does not contain any gluten, wheat, corn, nuts, seeds, eggs, soy, or dairy. And it does not contain any GMOs or preservatives.
A premium, doctor-formulated vision supplement that builds on the AREDS 2 foundation with additional research-backed eye nutrients.
Advanced Bionutritionals goes beyond the standard AREDS 2 ingredients by including a broader range of eye-supporting compounds in a comprehensive capsule formula. The product is designed for adults who want maximum nutritional support for macular health and overall vision, combining carotenoids with additional antioxidants and botanical extracts that target multiple aspects of eye function.
- Pros:
- Enhanced formula beyond basic AREDS 2
- Doctor-formulated with premium ingredients
- Targets multiple aspects of eye health
- Cons:
- Premium pricing
- Requires multiple capsules per day
Best for: Adults willing to invest in a premium formula for maximum macular health support. Those also interested in protecting their eyes from screen exposure should see our guide to eye health supplements.
4. Provision AREDS 2 Eye Vitamins – Best Value AREDS 2
- 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.
A well-priced AREDS 2 compliant formula with a lutein and zeaxanthin vision complex in an easy-to-take capsule format.
Provision delivers the core AREDS 2 nutrients — lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, and copper — at research-backed levels in a 60-count bottle. The capsule format is easy to swallow and absorb, and the formula avoids beta-carotene. At a lower price point than PreserVision, it offers genuine AREDS 2 compliance without the premium brand markup.
- Pros:
- AREDS 2 compliant at a lower price point
- Easy-to-swallow capsule format
- Good 60-day supply per bottle
- Cons:
- Less brand recognition than PreserVision
- No additional eye nutrients beyond AREDS 2 formula
Best for: Budget-conscious adults who want clinically-backed AREDS 2 dosing without paying premium brand prices.
5. AREDS 2 Select Eye Vitamins – Best Vegetarian Option
- 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.
A doctor-formulated AREDS 2 supplement in premium vegetarian VCaps Plus capsules — ideal for those who avoid gelatin-based softgels.
AREDS 2 Select delivers the complete AREDS 2 nutrient profile — lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, copper, vitamin E, and vitamin C — in vegetarian capsules made without gelatin or animal by-products. The capsules are easy to pull apart for those who have difficulty swallowing pills, allowing the contents to be mixed into food or drink. Manufactured with carefully selected premium ingredients and no unnecessary binders.
- Pros:
- Vegetarian capsules with no gelatin
- Capsules can be opened and mixed into food
- Full AREDS 2 nutrient profile
- Cons:
- Smaller brand with fewer reviews
- Two capsules daily required
Best for: Vegetarians and vegans who need AREDS 2 supplementation, or anyone who has trouble swallowing standard softgels.
6. 14-in-1 Astaxanthin 12mg & Lutein 40mg – Best Enhanced Formula
- 14-in-1 Complete Eye Support & Antioxidant Protection: Formulated for adults and eye vitamins for seniors, this blend supports visual clarity, dry eye comfort, and daily antioxidant protection. Combines astaxanthin, astaxanthin 12mg, lutein 40mg, zeaxanthin, and additional nutrients to help maintain clear eyes, promote dry eye relief, and support natural eye moisture
- Packed with Powerful Ingredients · Complete Antioxidants Blend: Formulated with Astaxanthin (from microalgae) 12mg, Lutein (marigold) 40mg, Zeaxanthin, Lycopene, Grape Seed Extract, Saffron, Beta-Carotene, L-Tyrosine, Vitamin E, Zinc, Copper, Selenium, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12. A complete antioxidants supplement designed to help nourish, protect, and fuel your eyes every day
- Strong Antioxidants & Vision Support: Astaxanthin is known as one of the strongest natural antioxidants supplements, helping fight oxidative stress and support eye comfort. Lutein and zeaxanthin supplements help support screen-time protection, performance. Grape seed extract, saffron, lycopene, beta-carotene, zinc, vitamin E, and selenium work together to promote visual clarity and daily eye vitality—ideal for users searching for lutein for eyes, vitamins for eyes, or eye support supplements
- Astaxanthin + Lutein in One Softgel: Most products offer either astaxanthin supplements or lutein zeaxanthin—Vivonu combines both premium categories. Compared with common lutein 20mg or lutein 10mg formulas, ours provides 40mg, offering 2–4× more strength. Compared with standard astaxanthin products, ours also includes lutein + zeaxanthin + 14 total ingredients, giving users the benefit of both high-search markets (astaxanthin, lutein supplement) in one advanced formula
- 6-Month Supply for Long: Each bag includes 180 softgels, a full 180-day supply, providing significantly more value than standard 120-day eye vitamins and astaxanthin. Convenient once-per-day dosage makes it easy for adults and seniors seeking long-term eye vitamins, lutein and zeaxanthin, or astaxanthin supplements for continuous support
A comprehensive 14-ingredient eye formula that combines high-dose lutein and astaxanthin with zeaxanthin and supporting nutrients for enhanced macular protection.
This enhanced formula delivers a potent 40 mg of lutein paired with 12 mg of astaxanthin — one of the most powerful carotenoid antioxidants known — along with zeaxanthin and 11 additional eye-supporting ingredients. The high-dose lutein significantly exceeds the AREDS 2 study amount (10 mg), and the addition of astaxanthin provides extra antioxidant protection that crosses the blood-retinal barrier. Each bottle provides a 6-month supply, delivering exceptional value.
- Pros:
- 40 mg lutein — 4x the AREDS 2 amount
- 12 mg astaxanthin for potent antioxidant support
- 6-month supply per bottle
- Cons:
- Does not include vitamin C, E, or zinc from AREDS 2
- High lutein dose may not be necessary for everyone
Best for: Adults who want enhanced antioxidant protection beyond the standard AREDS 2 formula, particularly those already taking a general multivitamin with C, E, and zinc.
7. Easy Absorption Astaxanthin 10mg – Best Antioxidant Boost
- The Healthy Way: Live your life the Healthy Way with the help of our astaxanthin supplements renowned for its antioxidant properties to support full body wellness
- Support Starts Here: No matter your health journey we are here to lend a helping hand with potent nutritional supplements guided by our commitment to utilizing tried and true ingredients
- Tangible Benefits: Thanks to its rich concentration of Antioxidants and Carotenoids this remarkable pigment can support the way you look and feel including protecting your vision and skin
- American Made: Our berberine supplements are proudly made in the US in a cGMP facility to give you the confidence that your health in good hands
- Made Clean: This premium formula contains no Artificial flavors and colors, preservatives, dairy, salt, sodium or gluten
A potent astaxanthin supplement derived from Haematococcus pluvialis algae that provides powerful antioxidant support for retinal health.
This astaxanthin supplement delivers 10 mg per serving of this powerful carotenoid, which research shows can cross the blood-retinal barrier to provide direct antioxidant protection to the macula and retina. Astaxanthin is estimated to be 550 times more potent than vitamin E as an antioxidant. The easy-absorption formula enhances bioavailability, making it an excellent complement to a standard AREDS 2 supplement for those seeking maximum eye protection.
- Pros:
- Potent antioxidant that crosses the blood-retinal barrier
- Enhanced absorption formula
- Natural algae-derived source
- Cons:
- Not a standalone AMD supplement — best paired with AREDS 2
- Can cause slight orange skin tint at very high doses
Best for: Adults who want to add extra antioxidant protection alongside their existing AREDS 2 supplement.
8. Snap Supplements Eye Health Capsules – Best Multi-Carotenoid
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A multi-carotenoid eye formula combining lutein, zeaxanthin, bilberry, and lycopene for broad-spectrum macular and retinal support.
Snap Supplements Eye Health delivers a diverse carotenoid blend featuring lutein, zeaxanthin, bilberry extract, and lycopene — targeting macular health from multiple antioxidant angles. Lycopene adds a unique dimension that most eye supplements lack, providing additional protection against oxidative damage. The capsule formula is easy to take and designed for daily use as part of a comprehensive eye health routine.
- Pros:
- Multi-carotenoid approach with lycopene inclusion
- Bilberry extract for retinal microcirculation
- Easy single-capsule daily serving
- Cons:
- Doesn’t match full AREDS 2 dosing
- Smaller brand with limited clinical data
Best for: Adults who want a diverse carotenoid supplement for general macular health support. For additional vision supplements for seniors, see our dedicated guide.
How to Choose the Best Macular Degeneration Supplement
The most critical factor is whether the supplement matches the AREDS 2 formula validated by the National Eye Institute. The clinically studied combination includes 10 mg lutein, 2 mg zeaxanthin, 500 mg vitamin C, 400 IU vitamin E, 80 mg zinc, and 2 mg copper. If you have intermediate AMD in one or both eyes, an AREDS 2 compliant supplement is the only formulation proven to reduce progression risk. Always verify that the product contains these exact nutrients at the specified levels.
For enhanced protection, some supplements add astaxanthin, saffron, bilberry, or omega-3 fatty acids to the AREDS 2 base. While these additions have promising preliminary research, they have not been studied in the same rigorous clinical trials. If you choose an enhanced formula, ensure it still meets the AREDS 2 minimums for the core six nutrients. Consider pairing a standard AREDS 2 supplement with a standalone astaxanthin or bilberry supplement for added antioxidant support.
Avoid AREDS supplements that still contain beta-carotene — the original AREDS formula included it, but the AREDS 2 study replaced it with lutein and zeaxanthin after beta-carotene was linked to increased lung cancer risk in smokers. Also be aware that the high zinc content (80 mg) in the standard AREDS 2 formula can cause digestive issues; some newer formulations offer reduced-zinc versions that may be better tolerated.
Third-party testing is especially important for eye health supplements, as an NIH study found that many products marketed for macular health did not contain the nutrient amounts stated on their labels. Look for products verified by USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab for quality assurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AREDS 2 formula and how does it help macular degeneration?
AREDS 2 is a specific combination of six nutrients — lutein (10 mg), zeaxanthin (2 mg), vitamin C (500 mg), vitamin E (400 IU), zinc (80 mg), and copper (2 mg) — studied by the National Eye Institute. Clinical trials showed this formula reduces the risk of progressing from intermediate to advanced AMD by approximately 25%. It works by providing antioxidant protection and building protective macular pigment in the retina.
Who should take AREDS 2 supplements?
AREDS 2 supplements are recommended for people with intermediate AMD in one or both eyes, or those with late AMD in only one eye (to protect the other eye). They are not recommended for people with early AMD or those without the condition, as the benefit in these groups has not been demonstrated. An ophthalmologist can determine your AMD stage through a dilated eye exam.
Can AREDS 2 supplements cure or reverse macular degeneration?
No. AREDS 2 supplements do not cure or reverse AMD. They can slow the progression from intermediate to advanced AMD, helping preserve central vision for longer. They work best as part of a comprehensive approach that includes regular eye exams, a healthy diet rich in leafy greens and colorful vegetables, not smoking, and managing cardiovascular risk factors.
How long do I need to take macular degeneration supplements?
AREDS 2 supplements should be taken daily on an ongoing basis. The clinical benefits were observed with consistent daily use over the study period (5 years). Most ophthalmologists recommend continuing supplementation indefinitely once started, as AMD is a progressive condition. Take the supplements with food to improve absorption of fat-soluble nutrients.
Are there side effects from AREDS 2 supplements?
The most common side effect is digestive discomfort from the high zinc content (80 mg). Some people experience nausea, stomach upset, or a metallic taste. Copper is included in the formula to prevent zinc-induced copper deficiency. If you experience digestive issues, try reduced-zinc formulations or take the supplement with a larger meal. Always inform your doctor about all supplements you take, as high-dose vitamins can interact with certain medications.
Can I take an AREDS 2 supplement with my regular multivitamin?
Research indicates it is generally safe to take AREDS 2 supplements alongside a standard multivitamin. However, be mindful of cumulative vitamin E and zinc intake to avoid exceeding tolerable upper limits. Discuss your full supplement regimen with your eye doctor or primary care physician to ensure there are no interactions or excessive dosing concerns.
