Eye vitamins: Can they prevent or treat glaucoma?

Date Updated: 02/07/2020

Answer Section

Probably not. Several dietary supplements are marketed as eye vitamins. But little evidence supports using these products for preventing glaucoma or reversing vision loss due to glaucoma.

Few clinical trials of eye vitamins or supplements for glaucoma have been conducted. Some evidence suggests that a high intake of vitamin B through dietary sources, including green leafy vegetables, may reduce the risk of some types of glaucoma. But B complex supplements, including folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12, don't appear to offer the same benefit.

Other studies have found that antioxidants as well as natural compounds such as Ginkgo biloba, tropical fruits and green tea, among others, may slow the progression of glaucoma, but the evidence so far is weak. And while some research has found that vitamin C supplements may decrease the risk of getting glaucoma, more research is needed.

If you're interested in trying eye vitamins or supplements, discuss the benefits and risks with your eye doctor.