VALEDA® Light Therapy for Dry AMD
VALEDA® is the first FDA-authorized light-based treatment shown in clinical studies to improve vision in patients with dry AMD. Until recently, care for dry AMD was largely limited to monitoring, supplements, and lifestyle changes. Pacific Eye Associates now offers VALEDA® in the office as a short series of non-invasive light sessions, with no injections or surgery. Our retina specialists can determine who is a good candidate after a consultation and retinal imaging. After reviewing your diagnosis, we will discuss a personalized course of treatment with you.
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How Does Valeda® Work?
VALEDA uses photobiomodulation (PBM), a technique that applies specific wavelengths of light to living tissue. The device delivers controlled pulses of red, near-infrared, and yellow light to the retina.
The light is meant to support energy production in retinal cells that are still functioning, which may improve how the retina works in the right patients. It doesn’t replace tissue that’s already been lost.
There are no injections, incisions, anesthesia, or surgery.
Who May Be a Candidate?
VALEDA is for certain dry AMD patients who meet specific vision and retinal-health requirements. It isn’t for every stage of dry AMD or for wet AMD — your doctor will confirm whether your stage qualifies. Patients with certain light sensitivities or light-triggered neurological conditions, or who recently used photosensitizing medications, may not be eligible. An eye exam and retinal imaging can determine whether VALEDA is right for you.
What To Expect
At each session you rest your chin and forehead on supports, like other eye exam equipment. The device tells you when to keep your eyes open or closed while the light is delivered. The treatment itself doesn’t require dilation, though your doctor may dilate you at your evaluation or follow-up visits.
It is recommended to have 3 series of treatment (roughly 27 sessions total) over the course of two years for optimal treatment.
What Research Shows
In the LIGHTSITE III trial, 145 treated eyes were compared against eyes receiving a sham treatment over the course of two years. The trial met its primary goal. 84% of treated patients had improved or maintained their vision, and more than 60% gained at least one line on the eye chart. On average, treated patients were about one line better than untreated patients.
VALEDA is not a cure. It can’t restore retina tissue that’s already permanently damaged, results vary, and you’ll still need regular monitoring.
Risks and Side Effects
Temporary afterimages, warmth around the eye, eye discomfort, or headache may occur. Patients with certain light sensitivities, light-triggered neurological conditions, or recent use of photosensitizing medications may not be eligible. Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements.
Interested in Valeda®?
Schedule a consultation today to see if you may be a good candidate.
Additional Resources
Dry AMD
Dry AMD is a chronic retinal condition that causes gradual central vision loss due to degeneration of the macula. Visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology to learn more.
Retina
The retina is the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye that enables vision. Our retina specialists diagnose and treat AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal conditions.
VALEDA®
The VALEDA® Light Delivery System is a photobiomodulation device for Dry AMD, developed by LumiThera and distributed by Alcon.