Could Melatonin Help Protect Against Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults. While the AREDS-2 formula is established for slowing AMD’s progression, new research suggests that melatonin—long known for aiding sleep—may offer additional protective benefits.

Key Findings from a Recent Large-Scale Study

A 2024 observational study published in JAMA Ophthalmology analyzed medical records of over 120,000 U.S. adults aged 50 and older. Researchers compared patients using melatonin versus those who did not, and found that melatonin use was associated with:

• A 58% lower risk of developing AMD among individuals with no prior history of the disease.

• Among patients with dry (non-exudative) AMD, a 56% lower risk of progression to the more severe wet form.

• These results held true even in older adults aged 60 and 70+.

Why Melatonin Might Help the Retina

Melatonin isn’t just a sleep aid—it also acts as a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-angiogenic agent. These properties may help protect retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells from the oxidative stress and damage that contribute to AMD.

Why This Matters to You

• The link between melatonin and reduced AMD risk provides strong rationale for further clinical research.

• Melatonin has a favorable safety profile, making it a promising candidate for future therapeutic strategies.

Why This Doesn’t Replace AREDS-2

• The study is observational, so it cannot confirm that melatonin causes these benefits.

• Lifestyle and health behavior differences could influence results.

• More evidence from randomized controlled trials is needed.

At MacuRest™, We Take Both Sleep & Eye Health Seriously

That’s why MacuRest™ combines the proven AREDS-2 nutrients with melatonin and B-complex vitamins—offering balanced, physician-designed support for both ocular health and restorative sleep.

In Summary

Early evidence suggests that melatonin may offer additional retinal protection against the development and progression of AMD. While more research is needed, the findings are encouraging—and reinforce the dual-purpose formulation of MacuRest™.