Bausch + Lomb, Madison, NJ, has launched PreserVision Eye Vitamin and Mineral Supplement AREDS 2 formula. The product builds on the original, clinically proven Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) formula, replacing beta-carotene with lutein (10 mg) and zeaxanthin (2 mg) and adding omega 3 fatty acids (1000 mg) per daily dosage. The product will be on retail shelves in early May, 2010.

Scientific studies show that the inclusion of high levels of omega 3 fatty acids, lutein and zeaxanthin in the diet supports eye health. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the number one cause of severe vision loss and blindness in the U.S. for people over the age of 50.

The AREDS 2 study, which is currently ongoing and expected to complete in 2013, is sponsored by the National Eye Institute/National Institute of Health and is the second nationwide clinical study to determine whether a combination of vitamins and minerals can further slow the progression of vision loss from AMD. PreserVision AREDS 2 formula is one of many formulas that are being evaluated in this study.