Generations Retina & Eye Center
Photobiomodulation
The first and only FDA-approved treatment for early to intermediate dry age-related macular degeneration is now available!
FDA-Approved Photobiomodulation (PBM) Therapy for Dry AMD
Now available at Generations Retina & Eye Center, this innovative, non-invasive treatment uses LumiThera’s Valeda® Light Delivery System to help improve and preserve vision in patients with early to intermediate dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
By stimulating the mitochondria (energy-producing components) in retinal cells, PBM enhances cellular metabolism, reduces inflammation, and may stabilize or even improve vision—potentially slowing disease progression and lowering the risk of further vision loss.
Understanding Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a progressive eye condition that damages the retina—the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye—leading to impaired central vision. It's the leading cause of vision loss in adults over 65.
There are two types of AMD:
- Dry AMD: The most common form, affecting 90% of those with AMD.
- Wet AMD: Less common but more aggressive, causing rapid vision loss.
Until now, dry AMD had no FDA-approved treatments aside from nutritional supplements. That’s changed with PBM therapy.
Backed by Clinical Research
PBM therapy—also called low-level light therapy or red-light therapy—has been proven effective in three major clinical trials: LIGHTSITE I, II, and III.
In the LIGHTSITE III Phase III trial, 100 participants with early to intermediate dry AMD received Valeda® treatments or a placebo. Key findings included:
- Improved vision: An average increase of 6.2 letters on the eye chart after 21 months, sustained at 24 months.
- Stabilized retinal health: Treated patients had less drusen accumulation (harmful protein deposits).
- Reduced disease progression: Fewer patients progressed to wet AMD or developed geographic atrophy (GA)—a severe form of dry AMD leading to irreversible vision loss.
How Valeda® Light Therapy Works
The Valeda® system delivers precise wavelengths of low-level light to the retina, stimulating mitochondrial function and enhancing cell health. This boosts energy production and supports vital cellular processes to help maintain retinal function and protect against further degeneration.
Who Can Benefit from Valeda®?
The Valeda® system is indicated for patients with:
- Best corrected visual acuity between 20/32 and 20/70
- Signs of dry AMD, including:
- At least three medium or large drusen
- Or non-central geographic atrophy
- No signs of wet AMD or central geographic atrophy
What to Expect During Treatment
- Schedule: 9 treatments per eye over 3–5 weeks, repeated 3 times a year (27 total sessions).
- Duration: Each session takes 30 minutes; the light therapy itself lasts under 5 minutes per eye.
- Comfort: No dilation, drops, drugs, or needles. Completely non-invasive and painless.
You may notice a temporary afterimage similar to what happens after looking at a bright light. This usually fades within minutes. There’s no downtime, so you can return to your normal activities right away.
Is It Safe?
Yes. Clinical trials have shown Valeda® to be safe, with minimal side effects. Rare symptoms may include mild eye strain, temporary vision changes, or irritation—all typically short-lived. While long-term effects are still under investigation, no retinal damage or harm to photoreceptors has been reported.
Contraindications
PBM therapy may not be suitable if you:
- Are sensitive to yellow, red, or near-infrared light.
- Have light-triggered neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, migraines).
- Have used photosensitizing medications (topical or injectable) within the last 30 days.
Please consult with your Generations Retina & Eye Center physician before treatment.
Ready to Protect Your Vision?
PBM therapy with Valeda® offers a safe, effective option for those with early to intermediate dry AMD. Learn more about the science behind this revolutionary treatment at the LumiThera website.