Astaxanthin - Gemzar (Gemcitabine) Interaction
Herbal: Astaxanthin
Also Known As: Astaxanthine, Astaxantina, Dihydroxy-3, 3' dioxo-4, 4' bêta-carotène, Microalgae, Microalgue, Micro-Algue, Ovoester
Drug: Gemcitabine
Brand names:
Gemzar
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 13, 2024
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Gemcitabine and Astaxanthin. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Astaxanthin Overview
Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring carotenoid, a class of pigments found in a variety of plants and microorganisms. It is known for its strong antioxidant properties and for giving certain seafood and other organisms their pink or red color.
Astaxanthin is commonly used as a dietary supplement and can be found in the form of capsules, tablets, and soft gels. It is promoted for its potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, improving skin health, and reducing inflammation.
Astaxanthin is a common component in dietary supplements for the eye, marketed to reduce the effects of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Gemcitabine Overview
-
Gemcitabine is used in combination with carboplatin to treat ovarian cancer (cancer that begins in the female reproductive organs where eggs are formed) that returned at least 6 months after finishing a previous treatment. It also used in combination with paclitaxel (Abraxane, Taxol) to treat breast cancer that has not improved or that has worsened after treatment with other medications. Gemcitabine is used in combination with cisplatin to treat a type of lung cancer (non-small cell lung cancer; NSCLC) that has spread to other parts of the body and cannot be treated with surgery. Gemcitabine is also used to treat pancreatic cancer that has spread to other parts of the body and has not improved or worsened after treatment with another medication. Gemcitabine is in a class of medications called antimetabolites. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells in your body.
Astaxanthin - More Interactions
Astaxanthin interacts with 630 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
Return to the main herbal interaction checker page
Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
Ask A Pharmacist About Your Herbal Questions!
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
Ask A Pharmacist