A Breakthrough Treatment for Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Valeda® is the first and only FDA-authorized treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) shown to improve vision.
Available at Retina Institute of Florida, Valeda uses advanced light therapy to support retinal cell health and help patients see more clearly now and in the future.
What Is Dry AMD?
Dry age-related macular degeneration is a progressive retinal disease that affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. Over time, dry AMD can cause retinal cells to deteriorate, leading to geographic atrophy and permanent vision loss.
Common symptoms of dry AMD include:
- Blurry or fuzzy vision
- Straight lines appearing wavy or bent
- Reduced brightness or intensity of colors
- Difficulty adapting to low-light environments
- Loss of central vision needed for reading, driving, and recognizing faces
Dry AMD affects each patient differently. Some people may have mild symptoms or none at all for years, while others experience gradual changes in vision as the disease progresses.
How Valeda Works
Valeda uses photobiomodulation (PBM) — specific wavelengths of light — to stimulate energy production within retinal cells. This process supports cellular health and helps the retina function more effectively.
Unlike injections or surgery, Valeda treatment is non-invasive, comfortable, and performed in-office.
What to Expect During Valeda Treatment
Valeda treatments are delivered using a specialized light delivery system while you are comfortably seated.
- Treatments are completed in-office
- Each session treats one eye at a time
- Patients typically receive 9 treatments per eye over 3–5 weeks
- Each session lasts only a few minutes per eye
During treatment, specific wavelengths of light are delivered in short phases while the patient alternates between keeping their eyes open and closed.
Proven Results
Clinical data shows that after approximately two years, patients treated with Valeda experienced:
- Improved mean visual acuity of about one line on the ETDRS eye chart compared to patients who did not receive treatment
While there is currently no cure for dry AMD, early treatment can make a meaningful difference in preserving and improving vision.
Who May Be a Candidate for Valeda?
Valeda is intended for patients with dry AMD who:
- Have best-corrected visual acuity between 20/32 and 20/70
- Have medium or large drusen or non-central geographic atrophy
- Do not have wet AMD or center-involving geographic atrophy
A comprehensive retinal exam is required to determine if Valeda is right for you.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Healthy retinal cells are essential for good vision. Although dry AMD progresses slowly, early treatment may help maintain visual function and slow further deterioration. Valeda offers patients an opportunity to take action before significant vision loss occurs.
Schedule a Valeda Consultation
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration, the specialists at Retina Institute of Florida are here to help.
Ask your retina specialist if Valeda is right for you.
Contact Retina Institute of Florida today to schedule a consultation.
Valeda® Light Delivery System. LumiThera, Inc. ©2025. Valeda is intended to improve visual acuity in patients with dry age-related macular degeneration. Results may vary. Consult your eye care provider for benefits and risks.
