Astaxanthin - Decadron (Dexamethasone) Interaction
Herbal: Astaxanthin
Also Known As: Astaxanthine, Astaxantina, Dihydroxy-3, 3' dioxo-4, 4' bêta-carotène, Microalgae, Microalgue, Micro-Algue, Ovoester
Drug: Dexamethasone
Brand names:
Decadron, Hexadrol, Dexone, Ozurdex, Dexycu, Hemady, Dextenza
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 04, 2025
Interaction Details
Dexamethasone is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates
Theoretically, astaxanthin may decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research shows that astaxanthin induces CYP3A4 enzyme activity in human hepatocytes. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Kistler, A., Liechti, H., Pichard, L., Wolz, E., Oesterhelt, G., Hayes, A., and Maurel, P. Metabolism and CYP-inducer properties of astaxanthin in man and primary human hepatocytes. Arch.Toxicol. 2002;75(11-12):665-675.
Interaction Details
Dexamethasone is classified as belonging to the following category: Cytochrome P450 2B6 (Cyp2B6) Substrates
Theoretically, astaxanthin may decrease levels of drugs metabolized by CYP2B6.
In vitro research shows that astaxanthin induces cytochrome CYP2B6 enzyme activity in human hepatocytes. This effect has not been reported in humans.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
References
- Kistler, A., Liechti, H., Pichard, L., Wolz, E., Oesterhelt, G., Hayes, A., and Maurel, P. Metabolism and CYP-inducer properties of astaxanthin in man and primary human hepatocytes. Arch.Toxicol. 2002;75(11-12):665-675.
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).
Dexamethasone Overview
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Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, is similar to a natural hormone produced by your adrenal glands. It often is used to replace this chemical when your body does not make enough of it. It relieves inflammation (swelling, heat, redness, and pain) and is used to treat certain forms of arthritis; skin, blood, kidney, eye, thyroid, and intestinal disorders (e.g., colitis); severe allergies; and asthma. Dexamethasone is also used to treat certain types of cancer.
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This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Astaxanthin - More Interactions
Astaxanthin interacts with 650 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 supplement 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.
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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!
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