Beta-blockers and AMD
I just read that vasodilators, i.e., beta-blockers have been implicated in causing macular degeneration. A long-term study at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, spanning 1988 to 2013, found that taking any vasodilator increased the risk of early-stage AMD. The study examined the eye health of 5000 participants during several decades. Among those not taking vasodilators, about 8.2 % developed signs of early age-related MD. Among those taking vasodilators, about 19.1% developed the disease. The research team also found that oral beta blockers like Tenormain and Lopressor (Metoprolol) increased the risk of WET AMD. In the population not taking beta blockers, about 0.5% developed wet AMD. In the population TAKING beta blockers, about 1.2 % developed wet AMD.
I have taken beta-blockers for years and have just been diagnosed with MD. I wonder if this could be a possible reason for my AMD.
thank you for sharing the results of that study. I'm sorry to hear that you have just been diagnosed with macular degeneration. Not being a medical professional, I can't comment on possible causes of your condition, but I can wish you all the best with your sight on an ongoing basis. I hope you've found some information already in this community regarding lifestyle changes you might like to consider in order to try to slow the progression of amd. My doctor recommended AREDs2 type supplements for me. Did your doctor recommend them for you? Wendy, Patient Leader. Thank you, Wendy, for your good wishes. I wish you the same. Yes, I am taking AREDs2.
I too have taken beta blockers for years for mvp….and was just told last week I have MD…so if you find any more info ….please let me know….I guess we could ask our dr, but they would just ho hum it….gosh you never know what you think is helping is hurting you….those vitamins that they recommend make me sick and so depressed….but I am just trying to eat the good foods and stay away from the bad….blessings!
you wouldn't be alone in taking the beta blockers, unfortunately. It is a real issue if we take something to help one condition and it worsens another. I'm sorry this seems to have happened to you. I can't help with suggestions about that medication, but regarding the supplements you have tried, I can suggest that you try them with food. Many community members feel a bit sick if they take them on an empty stomach. Some people have them with a glass of milk. I have mine with a good breakfast, and as long as I have something substantial to eat with them, I don't feel sick. Might be worth a try. Also, did your doctor suggest you using an Amsler Grid to check your sight between visits? This helps pick up any changes until we see the doctor again. Wendy, Patient Leader.
Yes he did tell me to use the grid …I have it on the side of my refrigerator (lol) and do check it each day…..the vitamin pills did not make me sick but very depressed …I think it is the e …I have tried it before and it does that…so I am just gonna take the others separately and see how that goes…I eat pretty healthy….I try never to eat gmo foods…sometimes you can’t help it …..and organic….in the morning I do a smoothie with oats, blueberries, banana…..whatever else I have on hand…now I toss in some spinach….it’s not bad….drink it with a glass of water….gonna do more salmon….I don’t eat pork, have not for 25 years….not overweight….never smoked, none of that……but I do have blue eyes and fair skin…..plus my age soon to be 74….so just trying to stay positive….the majority of us live with decent vision for the rest of our lives….hope everyone’s day is going well….
thanks, but no I am trying to eat a lot that is recommended for the eyes because I can’t take those vitamins they recommend… I like the sweet goodies too….. I sure hope we all live lots more years also and enjoy good health….have a wonderful day!…… gosh that sounds great on the salmon….moderation ….totally agree….thanks for your advice!
