Researchers from Case Western Reserve University have reported that regular melatonin use may help protect vision as people age. The findings appeared in the medical journal JAMA Ophthalmology.
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the brain and plays a key role in regulating sleep. Many seniors take melatonin as a supplement to improve sleep quality.
Evidence suggests that melatonin could lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss among older adults. The macula is the central part of the retina that enables sharp, colorful central vision. While scientists have long pursued treatments for AMD, breakthroughs have been incremental and ongoing.
In one large review, researchers examined medical records from more than 200,000 patients, including about 121,500 individuals over 50. The analysis indicated that AMD was less common among those over age 50 who used melatonin supplements regularly.
Additional observations hinted that beginning melatonin use after AMD symptoms appear might slow the disease’s progression, though researchers caution that more rigorous trials are needed to confirm these effects and to understand the mechanisms involved.
Experts note that the current body of evidence supports the idea that regular melatonin intake can be associated with a reduced risk of AMD development and may influence the course of the condition. The findings are significant for aging populations in North America, including Canada and the United States, where AMD remains a major public health concern and sleep disorders are prevalent among older adults.
Beyond eye health, researchers have explored other potential avenues to improve cataract treatment and management, reflecting a broader effort to preserve vision through multiple strategies. Earlier studies and ongoing trials continue to evaluate how nutritional and pharmacological interventions might complement surgical approaches and standard care to maintain retinal health across the lifespan.
As the science evolves, clinicians emphasize the importance of balancing potential benefits with safety considerations when using dietary supplements like melatonin. Individuals should consult healthcare providers before starting any new supplement, especially if they have chronic conditions or are taking other medications. Further large-scale, controlled studies will help clarify the role of melatonin in eye health and provide clearer guidance for patients and practitioners alike, with the goal of supporting healthy vision well into older age.