Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
Real members of myAMDteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Is there an alternative to the zinc in the AREDs formula - difficulty with urinary tract side effects

A myAMDteam Member asked a question 💭
July 25
 · 
Be the first to react
A myAMDteam Member

I don't have any problems with it

July 29
A myAMDteam Member

Where do you find it? Very interesting because zinc can also interfere with other meds. Thank you

July 28
A myAMDteam Member

There is a new formula by Preservision Areds3. It doesn't contain as much zinc but has more vitamins B6 and B12. Much easier on your digestion, not sure about urinary tract issues.

July 28
myAMDteam

Are you looking for an alternative to zinc in the AREDS2 formula due to urinary tract side effects? That's a really important concern to raise with your eye doctor.

The standard AREDS2 formula contains 80 milligrams of zinc, which is a high dose. Some people do experience digestive or urinary discomfort at this level.

Show Full Answer

Are you looking for an alternative to zinc in the AREDS2 formula due to urinary tract side effects? That's a really important concern to raise with your eye doctor.

The standard AREDS2 formula contains 80 milligrams of zinc, which is a high dose. Some people do experience digestive or urinary discomfort at this level.

There is a lower-zinc version of the AREDS2 formula available, containing around 25 milligrams of zinc instead of 80 milligrams. This may be easier to tolerate for some people.

The other ingredients in AREDS2 are:

- Vitamin C – 500 milligrams
- Vitamin E – 400 international units
- Lutein – 10 milligrams
- Zeaxanthin – 2 milligrams
- Copper – 2 milligrams

It's really important not to simply drop zinc from the formula on your own, as the combination of ingredients was specifically studied together. An eye doctor or ophthalmologist can help find the right brand or formulation that works best for your situation and tolerability.

July 25

Related Questions

View All

I noticed AREDs3 at Walgreens. Is this something new on the market?

A myAMDteam Member asked a question 💭
Daly City, CA
June 12

What Is the Amsler Grid? How To Use It To Track Your AMD
Macular Degeneration and Dry Eye Syndrome: Is There a Connection?
Is It Safe To Drive With Wet AMD?
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a member? Log In