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Dietary supplement

Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Country Life

Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg label
See full label image
Softgel Capsule Category: Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 30, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg 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 MAX 12 mg is a dietary supplement by Country Life with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for antioxidant support, skin health and aging, eye health.Based on those ingredients, 673 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are 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 MAX 12 mg by Country Life

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg by Country Life — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg by Country Life

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 11, 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.

Astaxanthin MAX contains one active ingredient: astaxanthin 12 mg per softgel. Astaxanthin is a natural pigment (a carotenoid) found in certain algae and seafood.

The softgel itself is made from gelatin, safflower oil, glycerin, medium-chain triglycerides, vitamin E, and water—these are inactive ingredients that help deliver 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: Antioxidant support after intense exercise.
  • We looked for evidence on: Athletic performance, Exercise-induced muscle damage, Exercise-induced muscle soreness, Physical performance, Muscle recovery, Oxidative stress — and 1 related terms.
  • The closest evidence on file: Astaxanthin is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Athletic performance (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Astaxanthin is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Exercise-induced muscle soreness, Fatigue, Physical performance, Exercise-induced muscle damage.

The evidence for astaxanthin's effectiveness isn't established in the data we hold. Studies haven't produced reliable evidence to rate whether it helps with age-related cognitive decline, age-related macular degeneration (eye health), aging skin, Alzheimer disease, athletic performance, or carpal tunnel syndrome.

That doesn't mean it doesn't work—it means the research so far hasn't shown a clear benefit for any of these uses.

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 abdominal pain, diarrhea, and red fecal color (a harmless discoloration from the pigment itself).

Higher doses have occasionally caused more severe stomach pain. Because there isn't enough safety data, the facts advise against using astaxanthin during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk with your pharmacist or doctor before taking this product.

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: 674 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, check any medications you take that are broken down by the liver enzymes CYP3A4 or CYP2B6 (Moderate severity for both). These include many statins, certain blood pressure medications, some immunosuppressants, some pain relievers, and some antidepressants.

The search tool on this page will let you check your exact medications.

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 may be worth considering if you're interested in a natural antioxidant pigment, but the evidence for what it actually does isn't solid yet. If you take any prescription medications—especially heart, blood pressure, cholesterol, or immune drugs—check them against this product first.

Talk to your pharmacist about whether it fits your situation.

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 Jan 22, 2022.

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 MAX 12 mg, straight from the product label.

Brand Country Life
Barcode (UPC) 015794073253
Net contents 60 Softgel(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 22, 2022
DSLD ID 258907
Product type Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Supplement form Softgel Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Sugar Free
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 MAX 12 mg by Country Life, 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 Softgel(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Softgel(s)
Servings per container
60
UPC/BARCODE
015794073253
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories15 Calorie(s)--
Astaxanthin12 mg--

Other ingredients: High Oleic Safflower Oil, Gelatin, Water, Glycerin, Medium Chain Triglycerides, 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.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Adults take one (1) softgel daily with food. As a reminder, discuss the supplements and medications that you take with your health care providers.

After intense exercise

Once-daily

Formula

100% bovine gelatin, BSE-free.

Country Life's Astaxanthin provides the max dose of fat-soluble astaxanthin at 12 mg per softgel; only one softgel a day is needed to reap the amazing benefits! #poweryourgreatness

Precautions

Caution: If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication, have a medical condition or planning surgery, consult a doctor before using this product. Stop using and consult a doctor if any adverse reaction occur.

Do not accept if seal is broken.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Storage

Store between 59 degrees-86 degrees F.

Formulation

This product has been manufactured at a GMP registered facility. Yes Manufacturing supports wind power

Whether you are looking for antioxidant support, exercise support simply improving your skin's smoothness, natural astaxanthin provides a wide range of benefits and will be an excellent addition to your supplement regimen.

Yes Certified gluten-free by GFCO.org No Yeast, corn or wheat No Milk, salt or sugar No preservatives No artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners No magnesium stearate

Promotes a healthy inflammatory & immune response Supports skin, eye, and heart health Improves mood & supports mental health wellness

Did you know? Astaxanthin is one of the world's most powerful antioxidant, boasting numerous health benefits across multiple areas of the body: Immune health Skin hydration Muscle endurance & recovery Memory support Heart health

Seals/Symbols

Certified B Corporation GFCO.org (Gluten-Free Certification Organization)

General Statements

Yes Recyclable packaging

Our pledge of integrity: Authenticity Cleanliness Freshness Consistency Accuracy

Convenient portable blister packs! FSC www.fsc.org MIX Paper from responsible sources FSC C018101

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Established 1971 Country Life

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary supplement

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

See for yourself

Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg by Country Life label

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

Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg 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 MAX 12 mg by Country Life

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

Serving size1 Softgel(s) Dosage formSoftgel Capsule Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.

Astaxanthin

Interacts with
673 drugs
12 mg per serving Form: Haematococcus pluvialis Extract

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

Astaxanthin monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: High Oleic Safflower Oil, Gelatin, Water, Glycerin, Medium Chain Triglycerides, D-Alpha Tocopherol. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg by Country Life Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg?

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
673Drugs
673 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Astaxanthin 673

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg interact with 673 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

1 of the 1 ingredient in Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Astaxanthin

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg 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.

Astaxanthin2 drug types · 673 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
Astaxanthin full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg, from the product label.

Country Life

See all Country Life products
Name
Country Life, LLC.
Street Address
180 Vanderbilt Motor Parkway
City
Hauppauge
State
NY
ZipCode
11788
Web Address
CountryLifeVitamins.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg by Country Life: Common Questions

Does Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg by Country Life interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg has a known interaction with 673 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg 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.
Can I take this while I'm pregnant?
There isn't enough safety data for astaxanthin during pregnancy, so the facts advise against it. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about what's right for your situation.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking this?
There isn't enough safety data for astaxanthin while breastfeeding, so the facts advise against it. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product.
What are the most common side effects?
The most common ones are abdominal pain, diarrhea, and red fecal color. The red color is just from the astaxanthin pigment and isn't harmful. Higher doses have occasionally caused more severe stomach pain.
Does astaxanthin actually help with aging skin or macular degeneration?
We don't have reliable evidence to say whether it works for either one. Studies haven't shown a clear benefit yet, but that doesn't mean it has no effect—just that the research isn't there to confirm it.
How much data do we have on long-term safety?
Long-term safety data are limited. Astaxanthin appears well tolerated in studies so far, but we don't have enough information from long-term use to make a strong claim about safety over years.

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

Not sure if Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

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 MAX 12 mg label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Astaxanthin MAX 12 mg’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 673 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 MAX 12 mg'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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