Are there Risks or Side Effects from Using AREDS 2 Supplements?

Courtesy: National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health (NEI/NIH)

Because AREDS 2 supplements have very large amounts of vitamins and minerals, they may change the way your body digests food. They can also change the way that other medicines work in your body.

An older type of these supplements — called “AREDS” instead of “AREDS 2” — have beta-carotene, which can increase the risk of lung cancer in people who smoke or used to smoke. AREDS 2 supplements don’t have beta-carotene. So if you smoke or used to smoke, make sure to choose the newer AREDS 2 supplements.

Always talk with your doctor before you start taking a new medicine or supplement — and tell them about all the other medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take. Your doctor can help you understand the risks and benefits of taking AREDS 2.

Courtesy: National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health (NEI/NIH)