lutein + zeaxanthin + omega-3 LCPUFA

A nutritional combination therapy consisting of the macular xanthophylls lutein and zeaxanthin, and omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). This specific formulation was the primary intervention studied in the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2), a major Phase 3 clinical trial sponsored by the National Eye Institute. The components act as retinal antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents; lutein and zeaxanthin accumulate in the macula to form the macular pigment, which filters high-energy blue light and neutralizes free radicals, while DHA and EPA are essential for maintaining the structural integrity and functional health of photoreceptor membranes. While the primary AREDS2 analysis found that adding this combination to the original AREDS vitamins did not further reduce the risk of progression to advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in the general study population, it is widely used as a safer alternative to beta-carotene, particularly for smokers and former smokers, and has shown benefits in patients with low dietary intake.

Brand names

nūmaqula Omega-3

Other names

AREDS2 formulation componentsAREDS-2 formulation componentsAREDS 2 formulation componentsL+Z and omega-3 LCPUFAmacular xanthophylls and omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids