Introducing Valeda: A New Breakthrough in the Treatment of Dry Macular Degeneration
We have exciting news for patients in Sarasota, Venice, Bradenton, and Lakewood Ranch – a revolutionary new treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is now available. The FDA has approved Valeda, a cutting-edge photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, to help manage dry AMD. This treatment, which has been used in Europe for several years, is now ready to improve the lives of patients in the United States.
Clinical trials have demonstrated improvements in vision, reduced drusen deposits, and prevention of geographic atrophy progression with regular treatments. If you or someone you love is experiencing vision loss from dry macular degeneration, we encourage you to explore this groundbreaking therapy.
Contact us to schedule a consultation today!
What Is Dry Macular Degeneration?
Dry macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in individuals over the age of 50. As the disease progresses, it leads to atrophy of the retina and the development of blind spots in the central vision, which can grow over time. The impact on daily activities, such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces, can be profound. While lifestyle changes and supplements like those recommended by the AREDS2 study can help slow progression, no treatment has been available to actively restore and protect vision — until now.
How Does Valeda Work?
Valeda is a unique treatment that uses specific wavelengths of red and infrared light to target the cellular processes involved in dry AMD. By harnessing photobiomodulation (PBM), Valeda stimulates mitochondrial activity, promotes healthy cell metabolism, and reduces inflammation and cell death. This helps to slow the progression of the disease, improve vision, and even reduce drusen, the small yellow deposits that accumulate in the retina.
Learn more about Valeda’s photobiomodulation mechanism of action here.
Clinical Benefits of Valeda
The Valeda treatment has shown impressive results in clinical trials. In the LIGHTSITE III trial, patients who received PBM treatment demonstrated:
- Improvement in visual acuity, with an average gain of more than one line on the eye chart after one and two years of treatment.
- Reduction in drusen volume, the macular deposits that contribute to vision loss.
- Prevention of geographic atrophy progression, with a significant reduction in the development of this condition in treated patients compared to those who received a sham treatment.
These results are exciting as they provide a means to maintain vision and slow the progression of dry AMD.
Click here for detailed clinical trial data and results.
Example of drusen reduction with Valeda Light Therapy
Treatment Details
Valeda uses a specialized light delivery system to deliver light in the red and infrared spectrum. The treatment is non-invasive, safe, and involves multiple sessions spaced a few days apart.
- Treatment Schedule: Typically, patients undergo a series of 9 treatment sessions over the course of 3-5 weeks. After the initial series, follow-up cycles are repeated every 4 months.
- No Pain: The treatment is well-tolerated, with most patients experiencing no pain during the procedure.
- FDA Approval: Valeda is the first FDA-approved device for dry AMD, and the first treatment for intermediate dry macular degeneration, offering a significant breakthrough for patients.
Is Valeda Right for You?
Valeda is ideal for patients with dry AMD characterized by the presence of drusen or non-central geographic atrophy. The treatment is not suitable for individuals with wet AMD or those experiencing significant vision loss due to central macular atrophy.
If you suffer from dry macular degeneration we encourage you to take advantage of these exciting new advances in medical technology. Call us today at (941) 351-1200 to schedule your Valeda Light Therapy consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is photobiomodulation (PBM)?
PBM is a non-invasive light therapy that stimulates cellular processes in the retina. It helps improve energy production in cells, reducing inflammation and promoting cell survival, which is key in treating dry AMD.
How often will I need treatment with Valeda light therapy?
Valeda is typically administered in a series of nine sessions over 3-5 weeks. After the initial series, your retina specialist will schedule you for a repeat cycle of treatments every four months.
How long is each Valeda light therapy session?
Each session of Veleda photobiomodulation takes 20 minutes in a seated position. No further testing or dilation is necessary during the treatment visit.
Do I have to be dilated for Valeda light therapy?
Valeda light therapy is administered without dilation and does not require any drops or other medication to be administered during your visit.
Does Valeda light therapy cure dry AMD?
Valeda does not cure dry AMD, but it helps slow its progression and improve vision, allowing patients to retain their functional vision for a longer period.
What are the risks of Valeda light therapy?
Clinical trials have demonstrated a strong safety profile with no significant risks or side effects. Patients with photosensitivity or recent use of photosensitizing agents should consult their physician before starting treatment.
How soon can I expect results?
The LightSite III study showed a significant improvement in vision within 5 months, with continued improvement throughout the two-year trial period.
Does insurance cover Valeda PBM?
Coverage for Valeda varies by insurance plan. Please contact our office for assistance with benefits verification and payment options.
When will treatments begin?
We are excited to offer Valeda PBM to our patients newly in the first quarter of 2025. Contact us now to reserve your consultation.
“Valeda Light Therapy represents a remarkable advancement in managing dry macular degeneration. Our goal is to slow progression, preserve your sight, and help you continue living life on your terms.”
Get Started with Valeda Light Therapy for Dry Macular Degeneration Today!
If you or someone you know is living with dry macular degeneration, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our team will evaluate your condition and determine if Valeda light therapy is the right treatment option for you. Don’t wait to take control of your vision – we’re here to help!
At Shane Retina, we are available daily with the newest and best treatment options for macular degeneration in Sarasota and Manatee counties. For further details, or to schedule an appointment, please contact our office at (941) 351-1200.