Key Takeaways

  • A new review in Ophthalmology and Therapy finds strong evidence that certain B vitamins may help reduce the risk and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
  • Data from large clinical and observational studies link B vitamins—particularly B6, B9 and B12—to lower homocysteine levels and improved retinal health outcomes
  • Bausch + Lomb is incorporating these findings into its PreserVision AREDS3 formulation and planning a long-term clinical trial to further validate benefits

Bausch + Lomb announced that a newly published narrative review in Ophthalmology and Therapy underscores the potential of certain B vitamins to reduce the risk and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).1

According to B+L, the publication draws on more than 20 years of scientific research, synthesizing findings from over 20 human studies involving nearly 30,000 participants. The review spans randomized clinical trials, large observational cohorts, and mechanistic and biomarker studies, providing a comprehensive look at how B vitamins may influence AMD development.

The review highlights the complex biological mechanisms underlying AMD, including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and elevated homocysteine levels—a compound associated with retinal damage.

“Scientific evidence shows that AMD develops through a combination of oxidative stress, impaired mitochondrial function and chronic inflammation,” said Julie Poteet, OD, MS, CNS, FOWNS, co-author of the paper. “The data reviewed in this paper suggest that some B vitamins may play a critical role in regulating homocysteine, a compound linked to retinal damage and increased AMD risk.”

According to the findings, maintaining adequate levels of key B vitamins—particularly B6, B9 (folate), and B12—may help mitigate these risk factors and support overall retinal health.

Among the most notable data highlighted in the review:

  • The Women’s Antioxidant and Folic Acid Cardiovascular Study (WAFACS) showed a 34% reduction in AMD risk and a 41% reduction in visually significant AMD with daily supplementation of B6, B9, and B12.
  • Post-hoc analyses from the AREDS and AREDS2 studies found that higher dietary intake of B6 and B9 was associated with a reduced risk of progression to advanced forms of AMD, including geographic atrophy and neovascular AMD.
  • Observational studies such as the Blue Mountains Eye Study and the Alienor Study linked low serum levels of B12 and B9 to increased incidence and progression of AMD.
  • Across multiple study types, consistent evidence suggests a strong association between B vitamin status and both AMD risk and disease progression.

Bausch + Lomb says the growing body of evidence supports the inclusion of B vitamins in nutritional strategies for AMD management. The company said it is translating these findings into product innovation with the launch of PreserVision AREDS3 eye vitamins.

“While the existing human evidence strongly supports action today, we are finalizing plans for a long-term clinical trial to advance the science further,” said John Ferris, president, Consumer, Bausch + Lomb. “This approach ensures patients and clinicians have access to timely innovation now while continuing to elevate the standard of care.”

PreserVision AREDS3 eye vitamins are currently available in the United States and are expected to reach most major retailers by June 2026.

Reference

1. Poteet J, Koetting C, Vakharia PS. Role of B Vitamins in Preventing the Development and Progression of Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Ophthalmol Ther. Published Online December 7, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40123-025-01281-1. Accessed March 2, 2026.