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Dietary supplement

Astaxanthin Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Higher Nature

Astaxanthin label
See full label image
Capsule Category: Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Astaxanthin against your medications. The heart of this page is the interaction checker and the full interaction report — how this product’s ingredients may interact with prescription and over-the-counter medicines you may be taking.

Around that, we add a pharmacist’s high-level view of the product as a whole — what’s inside, the evidence for its stated use, how transparent the label is, and what safety data exists — so you can see the full picture in one place. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases and the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist — not medical advice — and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Astaxanthin is a dietary supplement by Higher Nature with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for antioxidant support, skin health and aging, eye health.Based on those ingredients, 671 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are pure Astaxanthin. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Astaxanthin by Higher Nature

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Astaxanthin by Higher Nature — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Astaxanthin by Higher Nature

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

Generated from HelloPharmacist’s pharmacist-curated databases and editorial rules · Last generated Jul 12, 2026

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This product contains one active ingredient: pure astaxanthin, a carotenoid (a natural red pigment) sourced from algae. The capsule also holds several inactive ingredients — extra virgin olive oil, carrageenan, glycerol, sodium carbonate, and vitamin E (D-alpha-tocopherol) — that help deliver and stabilize the astaxanthin.

Does it work?

Not established
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Not established

The graded evidence we hold for these ingredients covers different conditions than the ones this product is marketed for, so there's no established rating for its stated use — see Astaxanthin's own graded uses on its monograph.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: Skin and eye health.
  • We looked for evidence on: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Aging skin, Dry eye, Sunburn, Eye strain, Photoaging — and 1 related terms.
  • The closest evidence on file: Astaxanthin is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Astaxanthin is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Aging skin, Dry eye, Sunburn.

The evidence for astaxanthin isn't yet established in our data. We hold ratings for six potential uses — age-related cognitive decline, macular degeneration (AMD), aging skin, Alzheimer disease, athletic performance, and carpal tunnel syndrome — and for all of them, the data we have is insufficient to say whether it works.

That doesn't mean it's ineffective; it means more research is needed.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Astaxanthin

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Astaxanthin is generally well tolerated in studies, though long-term safety data are limited. The most common side effects are mild: abdominal pain, diarrhea, and red-colored stools (a harmless discoloration from the supplement itself).

A small number of trial participants at lower doses reported increased bowel movements and red fecal color; at much higher doses (40 mg daily), a couple of patients experienced severe stomach pain. There isn't enough safety data to know whether astaxanthin is safe in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

The safety data advises against use during either. If you're pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting this supplement.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Astaxanthin

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Astaxanthin.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • For scale: 672 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before you start, double-check any medications your liver breaks down, particularly those metabolized by the CYP3A4 or CYP2B6 enzymes — a category that includes some blood pressure drugs, cholesterol medications, and immunosuppressants, among many others. Astaxanthin may theoretically lower their levels and reduce how well they work, though this hasn't been confirmed in patients.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no established evidence rating for its marketed use. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Astaxanthin might be worth considering if you're interested in an antioxidant carotenoid and your doctor approves it. If you take any prescription medications — especially those processed by your liver — check them against the interaction tool first.

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Skip it for now and ask your pharmacist.

You're generally looking at a well-tolerated supplement, but the effectiveness evidence isn't there yet.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Mar 22, 2023.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Astaxanthin, straight from the product label.

Brand Higher Nature
Barcode (UPC) 5031013107344
Net contents 30 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Mar 22, 2023
DSLD ID 275896
Product type Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Children 4 or More Years of Age, Vegan, Vegetarian, Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Astaxanthin by Higher Nature, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
30
UPC/BARCODE
5031013107344
IngredientAmount% DV
pure Astaxanthin4 mg--

Other ingredients: extra virgin Olive Oil, Capsule, Carrageenan, Glycerol, Sodium Carbonate, Astaxanthin, D-Alpha-Tocopherol

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Precautions

Warning: This product should not be consumed by infants, children and adolescents below the age of 14 years.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking any medication or have a medical condition, please consult your healthcare professional before using this product.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.

Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Formulation

No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. No yeast, added sugar or salt.

For skin & eyes Advanced formula optimal benefit

Vegetarian and vegan

Protection from the inside.

Astaxanthin may have particular affinity for the skin & eyes. Could be ideal for prolonged exposure to the sun.

Storage

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.

General Statements

This product has not been tested on animals.

Everyday essentials

FDA Statement of Identity

Food Supplement

Formula

Contains high potency astaxanthin, a powerful carotenoid.

4 mg optimal dose in one capsule.

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: Adults and children 14 years and over, take 1 capsule a day with a meal. Best absorbed when taken with a meal. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Is this label outdated? Report a formula or label change and our pharmacy team will review it.

See for yourself

Astaxanthin by Higher Nature label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

Astaxanthin label

Label images are published by the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database for the version of this product on file. Always read your actual product label.

View the full label (PDF)
What’s inside

The Ingredients in Astaxanthin by Higher Nature

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container30 Amounts shown are per serving.

Pure Astaxanthin

Interacts with
671 drugs
4 mg per serving Form: Haematococcus pluvialis

Astaxanthin is a reddish carotenoid pigment with strong antioxidant activity in the lab, and it is widely promoted for skin, eye, heart, and exercise...

Pure Astaxanthin monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Extra virgin Olive Oil, Capsule, Carrageenan, Glycerol, Sodium Carbonate, Astaxanthin, D-Alpha-Tocopherol. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Astaxanthin by Higher Nature Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Astaxanthin?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

 Go to the checker
671Drugs
671 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

pure Astaxanthin 671

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Astaxanthin interact with 671 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

1 of the 1 ingredient in Astaxanthin interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. pure Astaxanthin

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Astaxanthin with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

pure Astaxanthin2 drug types · 671 drugs

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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
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.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
pure Astaxanthin full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Astaxanthin, from the product label.

Higher Nature

See all Higher Nature products
Name
Higher Nature Ltd
Street Address
10 Discovery Way
City
Horam TN21 0GE
State
East Sussex
Web Address
highernature.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Astaxanthin by Higher Nature: Common Questions

Does Astaxanthin by Higher Nature interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Astaxanthin has a known interaction with 671 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Astaxanthin contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Is astaxanthin safe if I'm pregnant or nursing?
There isn't enough safety data either way. The safety information we hold advises against use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist to figure out what's right for you.
What are the side effects?
Most people tolerate it well. The most common side effects are abdominal pain, diarrhea, and red-colored stools — that discoloration is just from the astaxanthin itself and isn't harmful. At higher doses, some people have reported more severe stomach pain.
Does astaxanthin actually work for anti-aging or brain health?
The evidence isn't there yet. We don't have reliable data showing it works for aging skin, cognitive decline, macular degeneration, Alzheimer disease, or the other uses people ask about. That doesn't mean future research won't support it — just that we don't know now.
What exactly is astaxanthin?
It's a red carotenoid — a natural pigment from algae — that acts as an antioxidant in your body. This product is pure astaxanthin suspended in extra virgin olive oil inside a plant-based capsule.
Can I take this with my blood pressure or cholesterol medication?
That depends on which drug you're on. Astaxanthin may theoretically affect how your liver processes certain medications in those categories. Check your exact medications with the interaction tool on this page, or ask your pharmacist — don't skip the step.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Astaxanthin is safe with your meds?

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Astaxanthin label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Astaxanthin’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Astaxanthin

Interacts with 671 drugs

Astaxanthin is a reddish carotenoid pigment with strong antioxidant activity in the lab, and it is widely promoted for skin, eye, heart, and exercise benefits. Early human studies are promis...

Read the full Astaxanthin monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Astaxanthin's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 3 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Astaxanthin 3 references
  1. Kupcinskas L, Lafolie P, Lignell A, et al. Efficacy of the natural antioxidant astaxanthin in the treatment of functional dyspepsia in patients with or without Helicobacter pylori infection: A prospective, randomized, double blind, and placebo-controlled
  2. 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. PubMed
  3. Choi HD, Youn YK, Shin WG. Positive effects of astaxanthin on lipid profiles and oxidative stress in overweight subjects. Plant Foods Hum Nutr. 2011;66:363-369. PubMed

See these in context on the Astaxanthin monograph →

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

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