Vitamin B supplement may slow glaucoma progression, study suggests

A study reported by MailOnline suggests that common vitamin B supplements could help slow the progression of glaucoma, a degenerative eye disease affecting nearly 700,000 people in the UK. Researchers at Sweden’s Karolinska Institute found that vitamins B6, B9, and B12 may reduce damage to the optic nerve caused by increased eye pressure — a key characteristic of glaucoma.

The condition typically occurs due to an abnormality in the eye’s drainage system, leading to fluid buildup and pressure on the optic nerve. It primarily affects older adults and individuals with a genetic predisposition, and if left untreated, it can lead to vision loss or blindness. Current treatments include eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery to reduce pressure.

In the study, vitamin B supplements were administered to rats and mice with glaucoma. In rats with a more aggressive form of the disease, optic nerve damage was slowed, while in mice with slower-developing glaucoma, damage was completely halted.

Researchers believe the effectiveness of B vitamins may relate to how increased eye pressure disrupts the retina’s ability to use nutrients. Dr James Tribble, who led the study, said a clinical trial is now underway. A separate 2019 study also found vitamin B3 to be potentially protective against glaucoma.