Alternative

Astaxanthin

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Astaxanthin

  • Indications
  1. No current quality evidence based indications for Astaxanthin supplements
    1. Use standard Sunscreens (UVA, UVB protection) for reliable skin protection
  • Mechanism
  1. Astaxanthin is a Carotenoid, a natural antioxidant with a similar chemical structure to beta-carotene
    1. Extracted from certain algae
    2. Responsible for the color of Pink organisms (e.g. flamingos, lobster, salmon)
  2. Astaxanthin supplements may have a protective effect against ultraviolet light
    1. However, only found to date in early, small studies
    2. No evidence as of yet for prevention of Sun Damaged Skin, Skin Cancer
  3. References
    1. Ng (2021) J Diet Suppl 18(2):169-82 +PMID: 32202443 [PubMed]
  • Adverse Effects
  1. Abdominal Pain
  2. Diarrhea
  3. Red stool discoloration
  • Safety
  1. Avoid in pregnancy
  2. Avoid in Lactation
  • Drug Interactions
  1. CYP3A4 Inducer
    1. May decrease levels of cardiovascular agents, HIV agents, neuropsychiatric drugs
  2. CYP2B6 Inducer
    1. May decrease levels of Antipsychotics, Tricyclic Antidepressants, Beta Blockers, Opioids, Antiarrhythmics
  • References
  1. (2024) Presc Lett 31(4): 24