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Frequently Asked Questions
Vitamins and the Eye
Vitamin deficiency of a degree sufficient to cause vision problems is uncommon in the Downriver area. Taking one multivitamin/multimineral daily supplement, from a reputable manufacturer, is probably enough for most people. Some vitamins (particularly A and D) when taken in large doses may be toxic. Large doses of certain vitamins may interfere with the action of other vitamins.
Vitamin A.
Prescribed for night vision, age-related macular degeneration and retinitis
pigmentosa. Should not exceed 5,000 IU per day. Toxic effects include
headaches, fatigue, vertigo, vomiting, liver damage and birth defects.
Beta carotene.
At one time thought to prevent age-related macular degeneration. Subsequent
research did not confirm this protective effect. High doses of beta carotene
may decrease levels of lutein and zeaxanthin. Suggested dosage is 4,000
IU per day.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin.
Prescribed for age-related macular degeneration. Recommended divided dosage
of 4-6 mg per day.
Lykopene.
Prescribed for age-related macular degeneration. Recommended dosage is
3 mg per day.
Thiamin.
Prescribed for vision loss and optic neuropathy. Suggested dosage 4-5
mg per day.
Riboflavin.
Prescribed for optic neuropathy and cataract prevention. Suggested dosage
5 mg per day.
Vitamin C.
May reduce cataract formation. Maximum dosage is 1,000 mg per day. Overdosing
may cause diarrhea or nausea and may affect iron metabolism. If you have
been taking higher doses for a long time, taper off dosage over a month
or two, rather than abruptly reducing the dose.
Vitamin E.
May protect against age-related macular degeneration and reduce risk of
cataracts. Recommended dosage is 20-800 IU per day. Toxicity appears to
be extremely rare. There may be some interaction with vitamin K in patients
on blood thinners.
Zinc.
Prescribed for age-related macular degeneration. Maximum 15 mg per day.
Overdosing may depress the immune system and lower good cholesterol.
Manganese.
Prescribed for age-related macular degeneration. May lower incidence of
cataracts. Dosage is 2-5 mg per day. Overdosing could cause lethargy.
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