There is confusion between PreserVision AREDS-2 and “new” PreserVision AREDS-2. In September 2013 Bausch and Lomb changed the contents of PreserVision AREDS-2 and renamed the new vitamin, “New” PreserVision AREDS-2. The color of the box and the label on the bottle remain the same. The difference between the old and new vitamins is the “new” formulation lacks omega-3 fatty acids. They were removed because the AREDS study group was unable to demonstrate a benefit in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Other smaller studies have suggested a benefit and additional studies are needed to confirm or refute the value of omega-3 fatty acids in AMD.
Why is the difference important to me?
The importance in the difference for patients lies with the dosage. The recommended dosage for the older PreserVision AREDS-2 was two softgels twice a day. The recommended dosage for the “New” PreserVision AREDS-2 is one softgel twice a day. To avoid an error in dosing, patients need to be aware of which of the two similar vitamins they are taking.
Is there a cheaper version of AREDS-2 vitamins?
Yes. As the patent expired on the ARED-2 formula, there are less expensive options now available. The least expensive AREDS-2 vitamin that I am aware of at the time I write this blog is Equate Advanced Eye Health Complex by Walmart. This vitamin is equivalent to the “New” PreserVision AREDS-2, but much less expensive. It is taken one pill twice-a-day.
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