Pupila Family Eye & Ear Care Houston TX

Photobiomodulation Therapy for Dry AMD

A New Non-Invasive Treatment Option for Dry AMD
Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or red light therapy, is a non-invasive light treatment that uses specific wavelengths of visible and near-infrared light (usually 600 nm to 1000 nm) to stimulate cellular function, improve retinal cell health, reduce inflammation, accelerate healing, and relieve pain. Recently approved by the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in November 2024 for patients with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the PBM Light Delivery System uses multiwavelength light therapy across three wavelengths to support overall retinal health and improve disease outcomes. Many physicians and patients are excited that an earlier, non-invasive treatment option for dry AMD is now available.

Specifically for this treatment, it is a 15–20 minute treatment once a week for 27 weeks per the FDA-approved LIGHTSITE III protocol. This treatment is also covered by most insurance plans.
PBM therapyRed light therapy for eye

What to Expect During Treatment

How It Works

PBM is an in-office treatment device that some eye doctors will have in their offices. Not only is this not a one-time treatment, but, if applied as in the study, patients will need to be treated 9 times over a 3-week period, up to 3 times a year. Each treatment should take less than 10 minutes and is painless and easy.

When the light photons penetrate the tissue, they are absorbed by chromophores, specifically within the mitochondria of your cells.

It is very exciting to have yet another option in the fight against AMD, especially one that can be used earlier than injections. If you are interested, ask your eye care provider if they know of an office with this treatment option.

Cellular Energy

This absorption stimulates the enzyme cytochrome c oxidase, which increases the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the fundamental fuel your cells use for energy and repair.

Cellular Signaling

The process also generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in controlled amounts, which act as signaling molecules to reduce oxidative stress and activate anti-inflammatory and cell-survival pathways.

Common Uses & Benefits

Pain Relief
Frequently used to manage chronic or acute musculoskeletal pain, including arthritis, neck pain, and back pain.
Wound Healing
Accelerates the repair of slow-healing wounds, surgical incisions, and burns by boosting tissue regeneration and blood flow.
Skin Health
Promotes collagen production, helping to reduce wrinkles, treat acne, and improve overall skin complexion.
Neurological Function
Emerging, heavily researched applications involve transcranial PBMT to help with brain health, cognitive function, and the management of neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

FDA Approval & Clinical Trial Results

The FDA authorization of PBM reflects an extensive review of clinical trial data, including safety, efficacy, and the robustness of the study results, all of which support the positive utility of this treatment for patients with dry AMD.

Multiple trials have assessed PBM’s safety and effectiveness. At Month 24, approximately 63.7% of PBM-treated eyes responded with significant vision gain, of which 20% could see approximately two lines better on the standard eye chart. The trial also noted additional benefits, including reduced disease progression and improved quality of life. Further, the treatment was very safe and required nothing invasive, such as injections or surgery.

FAQs

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive light therapy that uses specific wavelengths of visible and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular function and improve retinal health.

Yes. Photobiomodulation (PBM) received FDA approval in November 2024 for improving vision in patients with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

No. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is completely non-invasive and does not involve injections or surgery.

Treatments typically take between 10–20 minutes depending on the treatment protocol.

The FDA-approved LIGHTSITE III protocol includes weekly treatments for 27 weeks.

Yes, this treatment is covered by most insurance plans.

Photobiomodulation (PBM) may also help with dry eye symptoms, overall wellness, inflammation reduction, healing support, and pain relief.

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