What is the AREDS2 formula?
| Ingredient | AREDS2 amount |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 500 mg |
| Vitamin E | 400 IU |
| Copper (cupric oxide) | 2 mg |
| Zinc | 80 mg |
| Lutein | 10 mg |
| Zeaxanthin | 2 mg |
| Beta-carotene | Not included |
Who did the evidence apply to?
The National Eye Institute says AREDS2 supplements can help people with intermediate AMD in one or both eyes and may help slow progression in the other eye when late AMD is present in only one eye. The same guidance says these supplements do not prevent AMD and are not shown to benefit people with no AMD or early AMD.
Why the exact formula matters
Calling a product “AREDS2-like” because it contains lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc or antioxidant vitamins is not enough. The research tested specific amounts in a defined population. A general eye supplement with lower doses, extra botanicals or undisclosed lutein/zeaxanthin amounts is a different product.
Why beta-carotene was removed
AREDS2 substituted lutein and zeaxanthin for beta-carotene because beta-carotene was associated with increased lung-cancer risk in smokers and former smokers in prior research. The National Eye Institute recommends the beta-carotene-free AREDS2 approach for current and former smokers when the formula is indicated.
Where VisiFlora fits
VisiFlora contains vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, lutein and zeaxanthin, but the disclosed amounts differ and its lutein/zeaxanthin doses are hidden inside a 351 mg blend. It also contains beta-carotene and multiple botanicals. It should therefore not be described as an AREDS2 formula.
Primary evidence source: National Eye Institute AREDS/AREDS2 materials, updated through 2026.
