The effect of omega-3-fatty acids on blood levels omega-3 fatty acids in patients with age-related macular degeneration.

There is observational data in the current literature suggesting that the intake of foods high in marine sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, may lower the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A large prospective study is underway to determine whether oral supplementation with 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial for subjects with dry AMD. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the change in serum omega-3 index (blood level of omega-3 fatty acids) after 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation versus 2 grams.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ability to provide written informed consent and comply with study assessments for the full duration of the study.
• Have AREDS category 3 or 4 disease.
• Category 3: Many medium sized drusen or one or more large drusen in one or both eyes
• Category 4: Geographic atrophy or choroidal neovascularization in one eye.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Women of child-bearing age with positive urine pregnancy tests or desire to conceive during the course of the study.
• Patients with a known fish allergy.
• Patients currently taking supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids and have an omega-3 index of greater than 4%.