#dry amd

Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss among older adults and accounts for approximately 80–90% of all AMD cases. This progressive condition gradually breaks down the macula — the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision — making everyday tasks like reading, driving, and recognizing faces increasingly difficult.

Until recently, treatment options for dry AMD were limited to lifestyle changes and supplements like AREDS2, which aim to slow progression but do not restore lost vision. However, a non-invasive therapy using microcurrent stimulation has shown promise in early research for improving visual function in certain patients.

What Is Dry AMD?

Dry AMD, also known as atrophic AMD, develops gradually in three stages: early, intermediate, and late. In the early stage, small yellow deposits called drusen build up beneath the retina, often without noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, people may experience blurred or distorted central vision and difficulty seeing in low light. In the late stage, damage to the macula becomes more severe, leading to significant vision loss — particularly in both eyes.

Risk factors for dry AMD include age (50+), family history, smoking, poor diet, obesity, high blood pressure, and UV exposure. Early diagnosis through regular eye exams is key to managing the condition.

How Microcurrent Therapy Works

MacuMira offers a new, non-invasive approach to support visual function in people with dry AMD. The treatment uses low-intensity microcurrents (typically 50–200 µA) delivered through closed eyelids using specialized electrodes placed around the eyes. This gentle electrical stimulation targets retinal cells and the Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE), which plays a critical role in maintaining healthy photoreceptors.

Research suggests that these microcurrents may help:

Boost mitochondrial energy (ATP) production in retinal cells

Improve blood circulation to the retina

Support cell repair and function in the macula

Clinical Evidence So Far

A 2023 randomized controlled trial led by Parkinson, Sayre, and Tobe studied the effects of transpalpebral (through the eyelid) microcurrent stimulation in patients with dry AMD. Participants in the treatment group showed an average improvement of 8.2 letters on a standard vision chart over 30 weeks, compared to a 2.2-letter loss in the control group. Additionally, 55% of treated eyes gained at least five letters.

Contrast sensitivity — important for seeing in low light — also improved significantly in the treatment group. These results suggest the therapy may enhance visual function for some patients, though more research is needed to confirm long-term benefits and broader applicability.

Important Considerations

The Canadian Ophthalmological Society has noted that current evidence for microcurrent therapy comes from a single-site study funded by the manufacturer, and has encouraged further independent research to validate the results. While Health Canada has licensed the MacuMira device as a medical device, patients and clinicians are advised to consider the treatment as an emerging option still undergoing evaluation.

Conclusion

Microcurrent stimulation offers a new avenue of hope for people with dry AMD. It provides a non-invasive, painless alternative to traditional treatment approaches and has demonstrated early signs of effectiveness in improving certain aspects of vision. However, it is not a cure, and it should be viewed as part of a broader treatment strategy that includes regular eye exams, nutritional support, and healthy lifestyle choices.

Macular degeneration impacts nearly 20 million people across North America each year, including thousands in Calgary. As Alberta’s population ages, conditions like dry and wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are becoming more common — especially among those over 50.

In 2025, ophthalmologists across Calgary recommend a personalized approach to AMD based on its type and severity. New medications, gene therapies, and home-monitoring technologies are changing how AMD is managed in Alberta.

Advanced Treatments for Dry AMD in 2025

Dry AMD, particularly in its advanced form known as geographic atrophy (GA), now has multiple treatment options that were unavailable just a few years ago:

Syfovre (pegcetacoplan): This medication targets the C3 complement system to reduce inflammation and slow GA. Clinical trials show a 21% slowdown in lesion growth after one year, with even better results over time.

Izervay (avacincaptad pegol): An alternative that blocks the C5 protein in the complement pathway. Patients treated monthly saw a 27% reduction in GA growth at 12 months.

Valeda Light Delivery System: A form of non-invasive photobiomodulation therapy that stimulates retinal cells using specific wavelengths of light. Over half of treated patients gained five or more letters on the vision chart after 13 months.

Stem Cell Therapy: Emerging therapies involving retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) transplants have shown vision improvements of 15 letters or more in some patients.

ANX007: A neuroprotective agent targeting C1q protein. Patients experienced a 72% lower risk of severe vision loss in early trials. While not yet widely available, this is a promising development.

Note for Calgary patients: Complement inhibitors may increase the risk of developing wet AMD. These treatments should be discussed carefully with a local retina specialist.

Wet AMD Treatment Breakthroughs in 2025

Wet AMD has benefited from more than a decade of effective therapies, but recent advancements have made treatment less frequent and more convenient.

Vabysmo (faricimab): This dual-pathway medication targets VEGF and Ang-2, allowing patients to extend injections to every four months. This significantly reduces clinic visits without compromising effectiveness.

Eylea HD (aflibercept 8mg): A higher-dose formulation approved in 2023 that provides similar extended dosing intervals. It’s gaining popularity among Calgary eye care providers for its reliability.

Susvimo (ranibizumab implant): A refillable ocular implant that delivers medication continuously and only needs to be refilled twice a year. After design improvements, it's back in use and offers convenience for long-term treatment.

Gene Therapy:

ABBV-RGX-314 delivers genes to produce anti-VEGF proteins, with 73% of patients remaining injection-free for at least six months.

Ixo-vec (ixoberogene soroparvovec) achieved similar outcomes, with 69% of patients avoiding injections for up to a year.

These therapies offer new hope to wet AMD patients in Calgary by dramatically reducing the treatment burden.

Future Trends in AMD Care: What's Coming Next?

2025 brings exciting research and clinical developments aimed at earlier intervention and more durable treatments.

GT005 Gene Therapy: Delivers a gene that increases complement factor I (CFI), addressing one of the genetic risk factors for dry AMD. Early studies show promise with good tolerability.

Oral Therapies:

ALK001, a modified vitamin A, is in late-stage trials and may eliminate the need for injections.

Zimura (avacincaptad pegol), initially used for GA, is now also showing potential for wet AMD treatment.

Home Monitoring Technology: Devices like ForeseeHome and portable OCT machines allow patients to monitor vision changes at home. This leads to earlier detection—by an average of four days—which can help preserve more vision when treatment begins.

Combination Therapies: Researchers are combining photobiomodulation, gene therapy, and complement inhibition to develop multifaceted treatment plans that aim for more sustainable outcomes.

Stem Cell Transplants: RPE cells derived from stem cells are being trialed in clinical settings, aiming to restore retinal function instead of just slowing deterioration.

GALLEGO Program: A new medication in development that targets lipid metabolism in the retina, going beyond symptom management to address disease mechanisms.

Calgary Considerations: Eye Care Access and Risk Factors

In Calgary and throughout Alberta:

Many AMD treatments are available through retina specialists in urban centers.

Seniors and eligible patients may receive partial Alberta Health coverage for AMD-related exams and diagnostics. However, recent policy changes require some patients to pay out-of-pocket for non-emergency visits.

Lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, high blood pressure, and sedentary living increase AMD risk. Calgary patients are encouraged to eat leafy greens, exercise, and manage chronic conditions.

People taking GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic or Mounjaro) should be cautious. New research suggests a possible link between long-term GLP-1 use and a higher risk of developing wet AMD. If you're on these medications, regular eye exams are strongly advised.

Final Thoughts: Managing Macular Degeneration in Calgary

AMD treatment in Calgary is more advanced than ever. With emerging therapies like gene editing, light therapy, and stem cell implants, patients now have access to options that were once only experimental. The key to protecting your vision is early detection and proactive management.

Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a prevalent eye condition that primarily affects older adults, leading to gradual loss of central vision. As this condition progresses, it can significantly impact daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognising faces. At Sanjeevan Netralaya, we are dedicated to providing effective treatments for dry AMD using the latest advances in Ayurvedic medicine. This blog explores the latest breakthroughs in dry AMD treatment and how they can help preserve your vision.

Understanding Dry AMD

Dry AMD occurs when the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision, deteriorates over time. This condition is characterised by the accumulation of drusen, yellow deposits that form under the retina. Unlike wet AMD, dry AMD progresses slowly and does not involve the growth of abnormal blood vessels. Early detection and proactive management are essential to slowing the progression of this condition and maintaining vision quality.

Latest Advances in Dry AMD Treatment

Ayurvedic Herbal Remedies  Triphala: A potent combination of three fruits – Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki – Triphala is known for its antioxidant properties and its ability to strengthen retinal health. Regular use of Triphala can help in reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall eye function.  Bilberry Extract: Rich in anthocyanins, bilberry extract enhances microcirculation within the eyes and protects retinal cells from damage. It is a key component of natural dry AMD treatment.

Nutritional Support  Antioxidant-Rich Diet: Consuming foods high in antioxidants such as green leafy vegetables, carrots, and berries can help protect the macula from oxidative damage. Nutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin, found in spinach and kale, are particularly beneficial for macular health.  Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in flaxseeds, walnuts, and fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids support eye health and reduce inflammation, making them an essential part of dry AMD treatment.

Eye Exercises  Simple eye exercises such as palming, blinking, and focusing on distant objects can improve eye circulation and reduce strain. These exercises are beneficial for maintaining healthy eyes and supporting dry AMD treatment.

Ayurvedic Therapies  Panchakarma: This detoxification therapy helps eliminate toxins from the body and balance the doshas. Treatments like Netrabasti (eye bath) with medicated ghee nourish the eyes, enhance vision clarity, and are effective in dry AMD treatment.  Nasya: Nasal administration of herbal oils can help clear the channels and improve ocular health. This treatment supports better vision and reduces symptoms of dry AMD.

Lifestyle Modifications  Protecting your eyes from excessive sunlight exposure, avoiding smoking, and managing stress through yoga and meditation are crucial steps in preserving vision and supporting dry AMD treatment. Adequate sleep and regular exercise also contribute to overall eye health.

Conclusion

The advancements in Ayurvedic medicine offer promising solutions for managing dry AMD effectively. Through a combination of herbal remedies, nutritional support, eye exercises, Ayurvedic therapies, and lifestyle modifications, patients can achieve significant improvements in their vision and quality of life.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide, leading to vision impairment and even blindness. Among its two main subtypes, Dry AMD is the more prevalent form, accounting for about 80% of all AMD cases. In this blog, we will delve into the symptoms of Dry AMD, explore the companies actively engaged in the Dry AMD market, and…