Macular degeneration
Do EPA and DHA supplements slow progression to advanced AMD?
Adding EPA and DHA in AREDS2 did not reduce progression to advanced age-related macular degeneration. Observational links with fish intake do not reverse this trial finding.
Updated September 24, 2026 · Editorial attribution: PV Griscom, M.Sc. · Independent clinical review pending
The question behind the headline
AREDS2 participants at high risk of progression; EPA/DHA added to the study supplement regimen.
What the finding does—and doesn’t—tell us
The omega-3 finding is separate from evidence for other components of AREDS-type formulations. Discuss eye-specific care with an eye clinician.
Read the underlying research.
- Lutein + zeaxanthin and omega-3 fatty acids for age-related macular degeneration: the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2) randomized clinical trial. · 2013 ↗
- Can Omega-3 Fatty Acids Serve as a Preventive Strategy for Age-Related Macular Degeneration? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. · 2026 ↗
Selected sources, not an exhaustive reference list. Rating draws on published results and review summaries; no independent full systematic review has been conducted. Source publication dates may precede this page’s update date.
Three questions to take forward
- Was the study population similar to the person or situation I have in mind?
- Did it measure an outcome people feel or experience, or only a laboratory marker?
- How do formulation, usual care, absolute benefit and adverse effects change the interpretation?
Study doses describe experiments; they are not personal dosing advice. Explore safety and limitations ↗