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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Effect of an oral supplementation with a formula containing R-lipoic acid in glaucoma patients

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Abstract Objective To analyse the safety and effectiveness of the oral administration of a commercialised supplement containing R-alpha lipoic acid (ALA), taurine, vitamins C and E, lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, copper and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), and in control subjects. Material and methods A prospective study of cases and controls was carried out, including 30 participants of both genders that were divided into: POAG Group (n = 15) and a control group (CG; n = 15), assigned to the oral intake of NuaDHA preparations Vision® (1 pill/day) + NuaDHA 1000 (2 pills/day) for 6 months. Participants were interviewed, ophthalmologically examined, and peripheral blood was taken for routine analysis and the determination of the pro-oxidant [malondialdehyde (MDA)] and total antioxidant status (TAS). Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 22.0 program. Results After 6 months of supplementation, there was a significant increase in the plasma TAS (1.073 ± 0.090 mM vs 1.276 ± 0.107 mM, P = .028), along with a parallel decrease in MDA (7.066 ± 1.070 μM vs 2.771 ± 0.462 μM, P = .005) in the POAG group. The MDA also decreased in the control group (6.17 ± 1.336 vs. 2.51 ± 0.391, P = .028). The Schirmer test improved (20–30%) and the subjective dry eye signs/symptoms noticeably decreased in the POAG group versus the CG. Conclusions Formulations containing antioxidant vitamins, ALA and DHA, administered for 6 consecutive months, counteracted the oxidative stress by further stabilising the morphological/functional parameters of both the ocular surface and the glaucoma, without presenting with adverse effects or intolerances.