American Academy of Ophthalmology states that Age-related Macular Degeneration, or AMD, is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness among Americans age 65 and older and affects an estimated 11 million people in the United States. Some studies have also found an association between AMD and high blood pressure, but this has been inconsistent.

In addition to increased age, the cause of AMD may be attributed to several risk factors, including hereditary risk and smoking.

The researchers found that using any vasodilator such as Apresoline and Loniten, which open (dilate) the blood vessels – was associated with a greater risk of developing early-stage AMD. Among people who were not taking vasodilators, an estimated 8.2 percent developed signs of early AMD. In comparison, among those taking a vasodilator medication, 19.1 percent developed the disease.

Read the full report at: http://www.geteyesmart.org/eyesmart/eye-health-news/blood-pressure-drugs-and-amd.cfm