Effects of lutein supplementation in age-related macular degeneration

Study answer

What this study found

Overall, lutein-containing regimens improved macular pigment optical density and were associated with better visual outcomes in AMD. Across nine studies, the pooled effect on MPOD favored supplementation with an MD of 0.07; 95% CI 0.03 to 0.10. The authors concluded that lutein at 10 or 20 mg/day for more than 6 months can significantly improve MPOD and visual acuity, with some evidence that higher doses increase MPOD more quickly. Some trials also reported improvements in contrast sensitivity and serum lutein levels.

Study & population

This was a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials in adults with age-related macular degeneration, including dry, early, wet, and mixed-stage disease.

Intervention

Lutein supplementation was evaluated across nine randomized trials in adults with AMD, using doses from 1.1 mg/day to 20 mg/day for 3 to 24 months.

Key limitation

The evidence base was heterogeneous, with differences in dose, formulation, disease stage, outcome measurement methods, and follow-up duration.

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Original abstract