Supplements are frequently prescribed in an optometric practice.

Omega 3’s are prescribed in certain cases of dry eye syndrome. Dry eye is frequently caused by inflammation. Omega 3’s are anti-inflammatory. Most of our diets lack sufficient Omega 3’s, unlike the pro-inflammatory Omega 6’s commonly found in the American diet. The effective dosing for Dry Eye Syndrome is 2-3 grams of Omega-3s in the re-esterified triglyceride form (rTG).

AREDS 2 (Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2) is the most up-to-date study evaluating supplements for the management of Age Related Macular Degeneration. The most common form of macular degeneration, known as Dry Macular Degeneration, has no treatment or cure; however, the AREDS 2 formulation is associated with reduced risk of advanced macular degeneration. The most important components of the formulation include: lutein & zeaxanthin, a full B-complex (B6, B9, B12), Vitamins C & E, copper and zinc. Lutein and zeaxanthin filter harmful high-energy blue wavelengths of light and help protect and maintain healthy cells in the eyes. Of the 600 carotenoids found in nature, only these two are deposited in high quantities in the macula of the eye. Zinc is an essential trace mineral, or “helper molecule.” It plays a vital role in bringing vitamin A from the liver to the retina in order to produce melanin, a protective pigment in the eyes.

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