- Antioxidant protection
- Skin health & anti-aging (UV protection, wrinkle reduction)
- Eye health (supports retina and macula)
- Cognitive function & neuroprotection
- Cardiovascular support
- Exercise recovery & endurance
- Immune system support
Dose:
- Common supplement dose:
- 4–12 mg daily, depending on purpose
- Higher doses (up to 16 mg/day) used in athletic and anti-inflammatory settings
Start with lower doses (4–6 mg/day) for general wellness.
- Capsules/softgels typically available in:
- 4 mg, 6 mg, or 12 mg
- Can be sourced from natural algae (preferred) or synthetic (less common)
- Take with a fat-containing meal to enhance absorption (astaxanthin is fat-soluble)
- Consistent daily use recommended for optimal antioxidant effects
- A xanthophyll carotenoid with a unique molecular structure that allows it to:
- Cross the blood-brain and blood-retina barriers
- Neutralize free radicals in lipid and aqueous environments
- Protect cells from oxidative stress, inflammation, and UV radiation
- Stronger antioxidant than vitamin E, beta-carotene, or lutein
- Rare and generally mild:
- Red-orange discoloration of stool
- Mild stomach discomfort
- Skin pigmentation changes (at very high doses)
No serious adverse effects reported at standard doses.
- Allergy to seafood (if derived from marine sources)
- Hypersensitivity to astaxanthin or related carotenoids
- May enhance the effects of:
- Immunomodulators
- Blood pressure meds
- Cholesterol-lowering drugs (mild)
No major known drug interactions, but caution advised with anticoagulants (mild theoretical risk)
Drug Status
| Availability | |
| Pregnancy | |
| Breastfeeding | |
| Schedule |
| BRAND NAME | STRENGTH | FORMULATION | PACK SIZE | MANUFACTURER | DISTRIBUTOR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zanthin 2 Licap | 2mg | Capsule | 30’s | Ace Pharma | Square Pharma |