When it comes to protecting vision, particularly for those at risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), nutritional supplements matter. Two leading brands—Lunovus AREDS 2 Macular Support Plus Multi (MaxiVision) and Bausch + Lomb’s PreserVision AREDS 2 Formula—claim to follow the AREDS2 study recommendations. However, Lunovus outshines PreserVision in formulation, ingredient purity, and patient safety.
1. The Beta-Carotene Issue: A Proven Health Risk
Beta-carotene was originally included in the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS1), but subsequent research exposed its serious risks:
- Increased lung cancer risk in smokers – The New England Journal of Medicine found that smokers taking beta-carotene had an 18% higher lung cancer rate. (NEJM Study)
- AREDS2 eliminated beta-carotene – The National Eye Institute (NEI) replaced it with lutein and zeaxanthin, which enhanced eye health without cancer risk. (NEI Study)
While PreserVision AREDS 2 Formula does not contain beta-carotene, earlier versions did, making it risky for former smokers. Lunovus has always been beta-carotene-free, prioritizing safety from the start.
2. PreserVision is Packed with Fillers and Additives
One of the biggest concerns with PreserVision AREDS 2 Formula is its long list of unnecessary additives, which may interfere with absorption and cause side effects. Compare the ingredient lists below:
Lunovus AREDS 2 (MaxiVision) – Clean & Pure Formula
Other Ingredients: Hypromellose (Veggie Capsule)
That’s it—just a simple vegetable-based capsule with no artificial colors, preservatives, or questionable fillers.
PreserVision AREDS 2 – Loaded with Unnecessary Additives
Other Ingredients:
- Titanium dioxide (linked to inflammation and potential toxicity concerns)
- FD&C Red 40, FD&C Blue 1 (artificial dyes that may cause allergic reactions)
- Soy lecithin, soybean oil (potential allergens)
- Gelatin (not vegetarian-friendly)
- Yellow beeswax, silicon dioxide, cupric oxide (fillers with no proven benefits for eye health)
Why does PreserVision contain these unnecessary additives? Many of these are included for shelf stability or appearance rather than patient benefit.
Lunovus keeps it simple and effective, ensuring better absorption and fewer side effects.
3. Lunovus Offers a Zinc-Free Option—PreserVision Does Not
- Some patients experience digestive issues and discomfort from high zinc levels.
- Lunovus provides a zinc-free alternative, allowing personalized supplementation based on patient needs.
- PreserVision does not offer a zinc-free version, limiting options for patients sensitive to zinc.
This customization makes Lunovus a superior choice for a wider range of patients.
4. Easier to Swallow and Better Absorption
- PreserVision users report frequent stomach issues, including nausea and constipation.
- Drugs.com reviews rate PreserVision 2.4/10, with many citing digestive discomfort. (Drugs.com Reviews)
- Lunovus provides a smaller, vegetable-based capsule that is easier to digest and swallow.
This difference is especially important for seniors, who may struggle with large pills and digestive side effects.
5. Made in the USA: Lunovus’s Commitment to Quality
- Lunovus manufactures in FDA-inspected U.S. facilities, ensuring strict quality control.
- PreserVision uses offshore manufacturing, raising potential quality concerns.
When it comes to health, transparency and manufacturing standards matter—and Lunovus wins here as well.
Lunovus Delivers a Cleaner, More Effective Supplement
With fewer fillers, safer ingredients, and better tolerability, Lunovus is the superior choice for macular health.
Switch to Lunovus for a cleaner, better macular supplement:
Lunovus AREDS 2 Macular Support Plus Multi
Switch to Lunovus for a cleaner, better macular supplement:
Lunovus AREDS 2 Macular Support Plus Multi