Overview

Astaxanthin is a red pigment that belongs to a group of chemicals called carotenoids. It occurs in certain algae and causes the pink-red color in salmon.

Astaxanthin is an antioxidant. This effect might protect cells from damage. Astaxanthin might also improve the way the immune system functions.

People use astaxanthin for many purposes, including Alzheimer disease, athletic performance, aging skin, muscle soreness from exercise, and many others. But there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for ASTAXANTHIN overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Astaxanthin is found in some foods and is often consumed in small amounts in the diet. Astaxanthin is possibly safe when taken as a supplement. Doses of 4-18 mg daily have been used for up to 12 weeks. Taking astaxanthin might cause increased bowel movements and red stool color. High doses of astaxanthin might cause stomach pain.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Astaxanthin is found in some foods and is often consumed in small amounts in the diet. Astaxanthin is possibly safe when taken as a supplement. Doses of 4-18 mg daily have been used for up to 12 weeks. Taking astaxanthin might cause increased bowel movements and red stool color. High doses of astaxanthin might cause stomach pain.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if astaxanthin is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid using in amounts greater than those found in foods.

Interactions ?

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) substrates) interacts with ASTAXANTHIN

    Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Astaxanthin might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

  • Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) substrates) interacts with ASTAXANTHIN

    Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Astaxanthin might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.

Dosing

Astaxanthin has most often been used by adults in doses of 4-18 mg by mouth daily for up to 12 weeks. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.