AREDS3 and Beyond: The Scientific Basis for B Vitamin Nutritional Supplementation in AMD

Overview:

Nutritional supplements play an important role in the early management of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Supplements containing antioxidants and macular pigments have been shown to slow AMD progression, and emerging data indicate a protective role for B vitamins. This program will focus on key data related to nutritional supplementation as a treatment strategy for early AMD.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Summarize the classification of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) based on staging
• Outline the design and major findings from the AREDS and AREDS2 clinical trials, including the 10-year follow-on study
• Explain the role of specific B vitamins in the treatment of patients with neovascular AMD when used alongside AREDS2 formulations
• Integrate findings from AREDS and AREDS2 clinical trials and emerging evidence on B vitamin supplementation in treatment recommendations for patients with AMD

Target Audience:

This educational activity is directed toward optometrists and other eyecare professionals involved in the management of patients with retinal disease.

Physicians’ Education Resource^®, LLC, is accredited by COPE to provide continuing education to optometrists.

Physicians’ Education Resource^®, LLC, designates this activity for a maximum of 1.0 COPE credit.