The Current State of AMD Treatment
Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common form of AMD, affecting about 85-90% of all AMD patients. Unlike wet AMD, for which effective anti-VEGF injections have been available since 2006, there was no approved drug therapy for the dry form for a long time. Treatment therefore focused on preventive measures and slowing down progression.
In recent years, however, the research landscape has changed fundamentally. With the FDA approval of a PBM device (Valeda Light Delivery System, LumiThera) in January 2025 and new complement inhibitors in the USA, an expanded therapeutic spectrum is emerging. In Europe, some of these approaches are still in clinical trials. Nevertheless, the three proven pillars – nutritional supplements, a healthy lifestyle, and exercise – still form the foundation of every AMD treatment.
Important to Know
Dry AMD is a chronic, progressive disease. A cure is currently not possible. All available treatments aim to slow progression, preserve vision, and improve quality of life. Regular check-ups with an ophthalmologist are essential.
What treatment options are there?
The treatment of dry AMD is based on a holistic concept. Depending on the stage and individual situation, different approaches are used.
| Treatment Approach | Mechanism of Action | Stage | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| AREDS2 Supplements | Antioxidant protection of the macula | Early to intermediate stage | High (AREDS/AREDS2) |
| Lifestyle Changes | Reduce risk factors | All stages | High (epidemiological) |
| Regular Exercise | Circulation & metabolism | All stages | Medium to high |
| Photobiomodulation (PBM)NEW | Cellular stimulation by light | Early to intermediate stage | Medium to high (FDA-cleared since 2025) |
| Complement Inhibitors | Slowing down geographic atrophy | Late stage (GA) | FDA-approved (USA), EU approval pending |
The Three Pillars of Basic Therapy
1. AREDS2 Nutritional Supplements
The large-scale AREDS studies have shown that a specific combination of vitamins and antioxidants can slow the progression from an intermediate to a late stage of AMD by about 25%. These supplements are the evidence-based foundation of prevention.
The Next Step: From Prevention to Regeneration
Photobiomodulation (PBM) as an innovative addition
While the basic therapy aims to slow down the disease, Photobiomodulation (PBM) offers a new, active treatment approach. It complements the established pillars with a regenerative component.
Standard Therapy
These measures can slow progression, but not actively regenerate.
+ Photobiomodulation
PBM adds an active component to standard therapy: low-energy light stimulates the mitochondria in the retinal cells, increases ATP production, and initiates regeneration processes at the cellular level.
Drug Therapies
For the late form of dry AMD – geographic atrophy (GA) – two complement inhibitors have been approved in the USA: Pegcetacoplan (Syfovre®, 2023) and Avacincaptad Pegol (Izervay®, 2023). These drugs are administered as intravitreal injections and can slow the progression of GA. In Europe, these therapies are still in the approval process.
Wet AMD: Anti-VEGF Therapy
Highly effective anti-VEGF drugs have been available for wet AMD since 2006 (Ranibizumab, Aflibercept, Brolucizumab, Faricimab). These are administered as injections into the vitreous body and can stop abnormal vessel growth. The treatment requires regular injections, often for years.
Important: If you notice symptoms of wet AMD (sudden vision loss, distorted vision), see an ophthalmologist immediately. Prompt treatment is crucial for preserving vision.