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ClearSight Compass Guide

AREDS2 Supplements: Formula, Evidence & Who They’re For

Reviewed for source accuracy • Updated September 29, 2026

AREDS2 is a specific nutrient formula studied by the National Eye Institute in people with defined stages of age-related macular degeneration. It is not a generic synonym for “eye vitamin.”

The AREDS2 formula

NutrientNEI AREDS2 amount
Vitamin C500 mg
Vitamin E400 IU
Copper2 mg
Zinc80 mg
Lutein10 mg
Zeaxanthin2 mg

Who was studied?

AREDS2 enrolled people with intermediate AMD in both eyes or intermediate AMD in one eye and advanced AMD in the other. NEI notes that people without AMD or with early AMD were excluded because prior AREDS data showed no benefit for those groups.

Talk with your eye-care professional

NEI recommends discussing which supplement, if any, is appropriate with your doctor or eye-care professional.