Understanding Valeda: A New Treatment Option for Dry AMD

For patients living with dry age-related macular degeneration, treatment options have traditionally been limited to monitoring, lifestyle guidance, and nutritional support. Valeda is changing that conversation. It is the first and only FDA-authorized treatment for dry AMD that is indicated to improve vision in certain patients, making it an important development in retinal care.

What Is Valeda?

Valeda is a light-based treatment system that uses photobiomodulation, or PBM, to deliver specific wavelengths of light to the eye. This non-invasive approach is designed to target mitochondrial dysfunction in the retina, which is considered an important part of dry AMD progression. The goal is to support retinal function and improve visual acuity in eligible patients.

How Valeda Works

Valeda treatment is performed in a series of 9 sessions per eye over 3 to 5 weeks. Because it is non-surgical and light-based, it offers a different option for patients who may not be candidates for more invasive care or who are looking for an earlier intervention for dry AMD.

This treatment is meant for people with dry AMD who fit certain exam findings. In general, it may be an option for patients whose vision falls within a specific range and who have signs of dry AMD such as medium or large drusen or geographic atrophy that does not affect the center of the retina. It is not meant for patients with wet AMD or geographic atrophy involving the center of the retina.

Why This Matters for Dry AMD Patients

One of the most notable points about Valeda is that it is not simply intended to maintain vision - it is intended to improve visual acuity in appropriate dry AMD patients. Over time, treatment has been associated with measurable improvement in visual function for some patients. This may make Valeda a promising option for individuals with dry AMD who are beginning to notice vision changes in daily life. An early evaluation is important, since eligibility depends on the specific stage and features of the condition.

Who May Be a Good Candidate

Patients may be considered for Valeda if they:

• Have been diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration
• Meet the visual acuity range outlined for treatment
• Show qualifying retinal changes such as drusen or non-central geographic atrophy
• Do not have wet AMD or center-involving geographic atrophy
• Do not have contraindications such as known photosensitivity to the treatment wavelengths

Advanced AMD Care in Winston-Salem

At Summit Eye Care, patients have access to advanced eye care solutions, personalized treatment planning, and experienced providers serving Winston-Salem with compassionate, comprehensive care. Our team takes time to evaluate each patient’s vision needs, explain findings clearly, and recommend treatment options based on the specific stage and condition of the eye.

Schedule an eye exam with Summit Eye Care to learn whether Valeda may be an option for your dry AMD care plan. Contact our office in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, by calling (336) 765-0960 to book an appointment today.