Generally, Viteyes 2 products are well received with very few side effects.

• The relatively high dose of zinc can sometimes cause stomach upset which is usually alleviated if taken with food. For sensitive individuals Viteyes 2 Zinc-Free is a good alternative.

Whilst generally well received, if you take a lot of medication it is always worth discussing with your doctor before starting any vitamin supplement.

If you take blood thinning medication (e.g. warfarin), supplements containing vitamin E can upset the levels. Therefore, it is best to discuss the situation with your medical practitioner before starting a new product.

No other supplements containing the same vitamins should be taken in conjunction with Viteyes 2 products.

During the National Eye Institute studies (AREDS and AREDS2) and in subsequent follow-ups there has been no statistically significant increase in any serious adverse conditions from taking the dose of vitamins and minerals in the Viteyes 2 range.

Viteyes 2 CAPSULES, ZINC-FREE and ADVANCED contain no ingredients of animal origin and are therefore suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

The rest of the Viteyes 2 range uses gelatin (bovine) capsules so is not suitable for vegetarians/vegans.

The Viteyes 2 range is generally considered safe to be taken by smokers as none of them contain beta-carotene.

Subject to local circumstances, all Viteyes 2 products can be prescribed under the NHS on an FP10 prescription, so it would be worth discussing with your GP.

Lutein and zeaxanthin are important, naturally occurring pigments at the back of the eye, known as macular pigments. They are yellow in colour and filter damaging high-energy blue wavelength light. They are also antioxidants and therefore protect against the damage caused by free radicals. Importantly, zeaxanthin is not found naturally in the body, but synthesised from our diet and utilised by the body, especially the eye.

Research conducted by the US National Eye Institute, North Chicago VA Medical Centre and other studies appears to demonstrate that carotenoids have an important role to play in visual performance and macular health.

It is worth noting that despite the various studies which claim the contrary, the EFSA has not approved any eye health claim for macular pigments.