> Does anyone have good experience with OcuPower to fight MD?
I couldn't find its formulation anywhere on the Ocupower site so don't
know the amount of the various vitamins that it has. It is 4 to 5
times more expensive than PreserVision, Ocuvite and Vitalux which all
contain the same amount of vitamins as was tested in the AREDS study.
The AREDS study showed slower progression of ARMD in selected types of
dry ARMD (moderated dry ARMD with drusen) with a supplement containing
betacarotene, Vit C, Vit E and zinc. There is a study currently
underway looking at lutein, we expect it will also prove effective so
most of the supplements listed above also have lutein. Smokers should
not take betacarotene, so betacarotene free versions are available.
Finally, a recent study suggests that Vit E supplements may increase
risk of stroke, so you should consult with your doctor before taking
it. In any event, you should not be taking an anti ARMD supplement
unless you have discussed with your eye doctor whether it is indicated
for you.
OcuPower has a number of plant extracts in it, these have not been
tested so their effectiveness and side effects are not known.
And here is a disclaimer from the Ocupower site:
"Disclaimer
Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and
Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat
and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional
health care provider before changing any medication" In other words,
the varioius claims made on the site are not supported by the FDA.
If you can find the Ocupower formulation, ask you pharmacist or eye
doctor how it compares to the others in terms of amount of Vit C, Vit
E, betacarotene, lutein and zinc content. If it has less, buy the
others instead. If it has the same, make your purchase decision based
on price. And if it has more, it may have levels that are dangerous.
Dr Judy