Dietary supplements, carotenoids (local classification)
ATC code: A11JA-ASTAXANTHIN (Astaxanthin – local code)
Brand names
AstaReal Astaxanthin, Solgar Astaxanthin, Now Foods Astaxanthin, BioAstin Hawaiian Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a xanthophyll carotenoid produced by the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis. The same pigment colours salmon, shrimp, and flamingos. Laboratory models report astaxanthin antioxidant activity 5-100 times that of other carotenoids on ORAC. In humans, RCTs run 4-12 weeks and assess surrogate oxidative stress markers.
The drug is promoted for these uses outside international guidelines. Each entry below is analyzed against AEMPS, FDA, EMA, Cochrane and major RCTs.
Not recommended
Astaxanthin is a natural carotenoid antioxidant from algae, added to supplements and creams and marketed for wrinkles and skin elasticity. Solid benefit for this use hasn't been shown, and the evidence for skin rejuvenation is lacking. For age-related skin changes, the approaches with real support are sun protection, retinoids, and regular moisturizing.
Not recommended
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid pigment with antioxidant properties, and supplements containing it are marketed for slowing aging and extending lifespan. The benefit for this use hasn't been shown in people: there's no evidence that it affects aging or how long we live. What actually helps skin and longevity is straightforward – sun protection, not smoking, sleep, physical activity and a balanced diet.
Not recommended
Astaxanthin is heavily marketed for computer eye strain. The marketing rests on a handful of early-2000s Japanese RCTs (Kajita et al.) with small samples of 20–50 participants, sponsored by AstaReal/Fuji Health Science. The claimed effect: improved accommodation amplitude and lower «fatigue» complaints. The 2022 meta-analysis by Ma in Nutrients pooled 11 RCTs (521 participants) and found a statistically significant but clinically small improvement in eye-strain symptoms; evidence quality is low, heterogeneity high, risk of bias high due to industry sponsorship. No Cochrane review exists. PPP 2023 on dry eye and digital eye strain recommends the 20-20-20 rule, refraction correction, artificial tears and workstation optimisation. Astaxanthin is not in the guideline. If a supplement was prescribed for «tired eyes» without a refraction and tear-film assessment, consider seeking a second opinion.
Not recommended
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid antioxidant from the Haematococcus alga, marketed as a supplement to speed up post-workout recovery and ease muscle soreness. Studies have not shown a convincing benefit for this use, and the evidence on recovery or performance is lacking. Sleep, enough protein and a gradual increase in training load do more to help you recover.
Opens the checker prefilled with this drug. Pick the second one from your regimen.
Pregnancy data are insufficient; supplement is not recommended.
Breastfeeding data are insufficient; supplement is not recommended.
Reference information, not a clinical decision. Discuss feeding pauses or changes with your physician or an IBCLC.
Astaxanthin is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Anti-aging and longevity (evidence tier D), Digital eye strain (computer vision syndrome) (evidence tier D), Age-related skin changes (wrinkles, elasticity) (evidence tier D). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.
Common side effects of Astaxanthin (≥ 1 in 100): GI discomfort, Carotenosis (pinkish skin discolouration) with long-term high-dose use, Blood pressure reduction in patients on antihypertensive therapy. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.
FDA category N. Pregnancy data are insufficient; supplement is not recommended.
Breastfeeding data are insufficient; supplement is not recommended.
Astaxanthin is contraindicated in: Pregnancy and breastfeeding (data insufficient); Hypersensitivity; Age under 12. Full list in the Safety section.