Study links Melatonin to Lower Risk of Age-Related Eye Disease

According to a study published in the journal JAMA Ophthalmology, melatonin supplementation is linked to a reduced risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and slowing its progression, suggesting potential as a preventive therapy.

Age-related eye disease, also called macular degeneration, is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults. It primarily affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision needed for tasks like reading and driving.

Melatonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland, is well-known for regulating sleep-wake cycles, but recent research suggests it may also help reduce the risk of age-related eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Melatonin possesses potent antioxidant properties, which can protect retinal cells from oxidative stress—a major contributing factor to AMD. By neutralising free radicals, melatonin helps to prevent cellular damage within the retina.

In the study, researchers analyzed data from the TriNetX database from December 2023 to March 2024. The retrospective study included patients aged 50 and older, divided into groups based on their history of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and melatonin use. Propensity score matching was employed to compare melatonin users and non-users regarding the risk of developing any form of AMD or the progression from nonexudative to exudative AMD.

The result showed that:

1. Use of melatonin was associated with a 58% reduction in the risk for developing AMD, according to the researchers.

2. In people with nonexudative AMD, use of the supplement was linked to a 56% lower risk for progression to exudative AMD.

3. The findings were consistent across age groups, suggesting melatonin's benefits may extend to older populations at higher risk for AMD.

The findings suggested that melatonin use was associated with a decreased risk of development and progression of AMD. Although lifestyle factors may have influenced this association, these findings provide a rationale for further research on the efficacy of using melatonin as a preventive therapy against AMD.

Reference: Jeong H, Shaia JK, Markle JC, Talcott KE, Singh RP. Melatonin and Risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration. JAMA Ophthalmol. Published online June 06, 2024. doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.1822