Evidence supporting the use of: Idebenone
For the body system: Eyes

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Idebenone is a synthetic analog of coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) and has been investigated primarily for its antioxidant properties and potential neuroprotective effects. Its use in supporting the eye, specifically the retina, has some scientific basis, primarily in the context of inherited mitochondrial disorders affecting vision, such as Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON). Several clinical trials and case reports have evaluated idebenone for LHON, where it may help preserve or improve visual function in some patients by mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in retinal ganglion cells.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) approved idebenone under the brand name Raxone for the treatment of visual impairment in adolescents and adults with LHON. The approval was based on clinical studies showing some efficacy in improving or stabilizing vision in affected individuals, although the benefit was modest and not universal. Outside of LHON and related mitochondrial optic neuropathies, there is limited scientific evidence to support idebenone’s use for general eye health or other common eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration or glaucoma.

In summary, idebenone has scientific validation for use in specific, rare mitochondrial optic disorders, but the evidence does not extend to broader applications in eye health. Its rating reflects moderate evidence limited to a narrow indication, rather than general support for the entire eye system.

More about Idebenone
More about Eyes

Other body systems supported by Idebenone

Brain
Eyes
Mitochondria
Nerves
Skin

Products containing Idebenone

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.