Abstract: Zeaxanthin, a dietary carotenoid that occurs in very small quantities in corn, spinach, and other dietary sources, can reduce light hyper-sensitivity and various related conditions (such as migraine or other recurrent headaches) in people who suffer from it. Preferred dosages range from about 10 to about 100 mg per day, depending on the severity of condition, and the weight and medical status of the person. High dosages during an initial “buildup” dosing regimen can promote increased concentrations in the macula and lens, and lower dosages can then be used for maintenance purposes. Lutein may be able to achieve similar results, but because of certain molecular and cellular factors, zeaxanthin is preferable. Additional active agents (such as bilberry or other plant extracts, Vitamins C or E, zinc, etc.) can also be included or coadministered with any such formulations.

Abstract: Zeaxanthin, a natural carotenoid, can improve and increase the ability of enzyme inhibitors that can slow down certain enzymes that are contributing to toxic metabolite accumulation in people who suffer from Stargardt's disease or other lipofuscin disorders. Such enzyme inhibitors include retinoid analogs such as isotretinoin, commonly known by the trademark, ACCUTANE. This drug binds to and inhibits at least two retinal enzymes, known as RPE65 and short chain dehydrogenase, which create surplus metabolites that feed into a pathway that eventually creates toxic metabolites in people with Stargardt's disease. However, isotretinoin treatment alone is not highly effective; therefore, use of zeaxanthin as an adjunctive treatment can improve the efficacy and outcomes of such treatments.

Abstract: Formulations marketed to elderly consumers for preventing or treating age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration are modified in various four ways, compared to the formulations tested in the first “Age-Related Eye Disease Study” (AREDS-1) clinical trial. Zinc dosages are substabtially reduced, to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other neurotoxic damage in the brains of elderly people, and zeaxanthin is substituted for a substantial portion of any beta-carotene. Additional useful agents are also disclosed.

Abstract: Pre-treatment using a xanthin carotenoid (preferably 3R,3?R-zeaxanthin) can improve the benefits and efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT), which uses a light-activated drug (such as verteporfin) in patients who suffer from unwanted retinal blood vessel growth, including the “wet” (exudative) form of macular degeneration. Before a PDT treatment, patients are given a regimen of orally-ingested zeaxanthin for a period of at least 1 and preferably at least 2 to 3 weeks, at dosages of at least 3 and preferably at least 10 milligrams per day. Since zeaxanthin imparts a yellowish color to the macula, a preferred dosage should increase a patient's macular pigment density before the PDT treatment is performed.

Abstract: Oral formulations for promoting eye health, and in particular for preventing or treating macular degeneration, are disclosed, containing zeaxanthin, a carotenoid pigment, and at least two or more additional ocular-active nutrients selected from lipoic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, plant-derived compounds such as flavonoids, anthocyanins, or polyphenolics, taurine, carnitine, Coenzyme-Q10, carnosine, and nutrients that stimulate the production of glutathione. Processes are disclosed for identifying ocular-active nutrients that will interact in a synergistic and potentiating manner with zeaxanthin, to provide better and more effective protection, for eye health, than can be provided by zeaxanthin alone. Additional optional agents include zinc, vitamin E, and vitamin C.