People age 50 and older who are supplementing their evening snooze with melatonin appear to be decreasing their risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology shows. Additionally, those with preexisting non-exudative AMD who took melatonin had a decreased risk of progression to the exudative form of the blinding condition.

The retrospective cohort study of medical records, was comprised of 121,523 patients who did not have AMD, and 66,253 patients who had preexisting non-exudative AMD.

The authors call for further inquiry, alongside retinal specialist Steven Ferrucci, OD, FAAO, chief of optometry at the Sepulveda VA Clinic, and professor at Southern California College of Optometry. While the number of patients evaluated and trends prove both interesting and encouraging, Dr. Ferrucci says: “I would like to see additional clinical trials or at least longitudinal studies that support [melatonin’s] use.” Examples of additional information that would benefit from study include exact dose or frequency of melatonin for AMD prevention, he explains.

For now, he advises, proceed with what is known. “I recommend sticking to what we know and has been shown in previous studies to be helpful,” Dr. Ferrucci says, citing supplementation guidelines, diet with fish and leafy vegetables, exercise, such as walking a few blocks a day, and elimination of smoking. “As primary eye care doctors, I do feel it is important to know about such studies, as patients will likely ask,” Dr. Ferrucci says. “Sharing your opinions on studies like this, as well as offering recommendations, is key to patient education and appropriate care for these patients.” OM