Bausch & Lomb launches new PreserVision product

MADISON, N.J. Bausch & Lomb on Friday announced the U.S. launch of PreserVision eye vitamin and mineral supplement AREDS 2 formula.

The new formula builds on the original, clinically proven age-related eye disease study formula, replacing beta-carotene with lutein (10 mg) and zeaxanthin (2 mg) and adding omega-3 fatty acids (1,000 mg) per daily dosage. The product will be on retail shelves in early May, 2010, the eye care company stated.

Scientific studies show that the inclusion of high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, lutein and zeaxanthin in the diet supports eye health. Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of severe vision loss and blindness in the United States for people older than the age of 50 years.

The AREDS2 study, which is currently ongoing and expected to complete in 2013, is sponsored by the National Eye Institute/National Institute of Health and is the second nationwide clinical study to determine whether a combination of vitamins and minerals can further slow the progression of vision loss from AMD. PreserVision AREDS 2 formula is one of many formulas that are being evaluated in this study.