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Showing posts from October, 2025

N-Acetylcysteine and Macular Degeneration

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 A large study from Taiwan found that people who took the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) had a much lower risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) . The study used national health insurance data and included over 5,000 NAC users and 5,000 non-users . NAC users showed a significantly lower risk of both dry and wet AMD, especially at higher doses , suggesting a dose-response effect . NAC helps protect cells by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation , both key factors in AMD. However, the benefit was mainly seen in those taking larger or longer-term doses , and the data for wet AMD were less certain due to fewer cases. The authors caution that, since this was a retrospective database study , more prospective clinical research is needed to confirm NAC’s protective role and clarify the optimal dosage.

Testosterone Use Linked to Higher Risk of Central Serous Retinopathy

A new study found that taking testosterone—whether by patch, injection, or supplement—may increase the risk of developing central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) , a condition where fluid leaks under the retina and causes blurry or distorted vision. Researchers reviewed large medical databases and discovered that patients on testosterone therapy had higher average testosterone levels and blood counts, and were more likely to develop CSCR compared to non-users. Although some results weren’t statistically strong due to smaller sample sizes, the overall link remained significant. Scientists believe testosterone may raise pressure in the tiny blood vessels behind the eye or make them more “leaky,” allowing fluid to collect under the retina. Another possible cause is overstimulation of the body’s stress-response system, which can damage the retinal cells that normally keep fluid out. The study’s authors advise doctors to ask about testosterone use when diagnosing CSCR and to educate pa...