The first AREDS demonstrated a reduction in the risk of progression to end-stage AMD when beta carotene (7,500 mcg RAE [15 mg]), vitamin C (500 mg), vitamin E (180 mg [400 IU]), zinc (80 mg), and copper (2 mg) were given daily to people with advanced forms of both wet and dry AMD
Less common side effects included dyspepsia, fatigue, eructation (belching), hair loss, gastroesophageal reflux, dizziness, and gastritis (Table 2)
Improved Absorption: B12 injections bypass the digestive system, ensuring that the vitamin is absorbed directly into the bloodstream
The oxidation reaction occurs in the stomach and bloodstream, dissociating the copper ion from the peptide backbone
These agents suppress the Fenton reaction within the mitochondria by reducing the mitochondrial labile iron pool, thereby limiting the formation of OH and preventing mitochondrial lipid peroxidation