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Dietary supplement

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by NOW

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 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 Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 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

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg is a dietary supplement by NOW 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 AstaReal. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

Jump to a section

Check Your Meds Against Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg by NOW

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg by NOW — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg by NOW

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 Oct 1, 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 softgel contains one active ingredient: AstaReal astaxanthin at 10 mg per dose. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid—a type of plant pigment with antioxidant properties.

The softgel is filled with organic extra virgin olive oil, bovine gelatin, glycerin, water, and mixed tocopherols (vitamin E), which help keep the ingredient stable and make it easier to swallow.

Does it work?

Couldn't assess
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 assessable

We hold no graded evidence for this product's ingredients for its stated purpose.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: cellular free radical protection and immune health.
  • Our graded evidence for these ingredients doesn't cover that particular purpose.

The evidence for astaxanthin in the conditions studied—age-related cognitive decline, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), aging skin, Alzheimer disease, athletic performance, and carpal tunnel syndrome—is currently rated insufficient. That means we don't have enough reliable research yet to say whether it works for any of these uses.

If you're considering it for a specific health goal, talk it over with your doctor or pharmacist to see what the latest research shows.

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 remain limited. The most common side effects reported are abdominal pain, diarrhea, and red fecal color (a harmless discoloration from the supplement itself).

At higher doses—40 mg daily—severe stomach pain has been reported in a small number of cases. Based on available safety data, astaxanthin is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

If you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor or pharmacist 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: 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 taking this product, check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take any medications metabolized by CYP3A4 or CYP2B6 enzymes. These include a wide range of common prescriptions.

Lab research suggests astaxanthin may lower levels of these drugs, though this hasn't been confirmed in patients yet—but it's important to verify your specific medications first.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no assessable stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg may be worth considering if you're interested in its potential antioxidant properties, but the evidence for specific health benefits isn't established yet. If you take prescription medications—especially those processed through your liver—check them against the interactions tool on this page before you start.

Also avoid this product during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist to decide whether it's right for 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 Jul 25, 2024.

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 Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg, straight from the product label.

Brand NOW
Barcode (UPC) 733739022516
Net contents 60 Softgel(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jul 25, 2024
DSLD ID 314310
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), Kosher, Gluten Free, Dairy 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 Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg by NOW, 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
733739022516
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories5 Calorie(s)--
AstaReal10 mg--

Other ingredients: organic extra virgin Olive Oil, Bovine Gelatin, Glycerin, Water, Mixed Tocopherols

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

Suggested Usage: Take 1 softgel daily with a fat-containing meal.

Formula

Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring carotenoid that, due to its unique structure, performs an important role in cellular free radical protection and healthy immune system responses.

NOW Astaxanthin is derived from Non-GMO Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae and has naturally occurring lutein, canthaxanthin and beta-carotene.

AstaReal

Triangle K (Kosher) Contains Gelatin

Triangle K (Kosher) Contains Gelatin

This extra strength product has over twice the Astaxanthin (10 mg per softgel) than our regular strength product (4 mg per softgel).

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.

Precautions

Caution: For adults only. Keep out of reach of children.

Consult physician if pregnant/nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.

Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish or sesame ingredients. Produced in a GMP facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.

Formulation

Natural color variation may occur in this product.

Cellular protection Potent free radical neutralizer Supports balanced immune system responses

Non-GMO

Made and quality tested in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.

Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish or sesame ingredients.

Brand IP Statement(s)

AstaReal is a registered trademark of Fuji Chemical Industries Co., Ltd.

FDA Statement of Identity

A Dietary Supplement

Seals/Symbols

Triangle K (Kosher) Contains Gelatin

GMP Quality Assured

General Statements

General Health Family owned since 1968.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place after opening.

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

See for yourself

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg by NOW label

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

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 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 Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg by NOW

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.

AstaReal

Interacts with
671 drugs
10 mg per serving Form: Astaxanthin

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

AstaReal monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Organic extra virgin Olive Oil, Bovine Gelatin, Glycerin, Water, Mixed Tocopherols. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg by NOW Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 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
671Drugs
671 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

AstaReal 671

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg interact with 671 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

1 of the 1 ingredient in Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. AstaReal

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 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.

AstaReal2 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
AstaReal full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg, from the product label.

NOW

See all NOW products
Name
NOW Foods
Street Address
395 S. Glen Ellyn Rd.
City
Bloomingdale
State
IL
ZipCode
60108
Web Address
nowfoods.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg by NOW: Common Questions

Does Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg by NOW interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg 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?
Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 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 pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. There isn't enough safety data on astaxanthin during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it's best to avoid it. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing.
What are the most common side effects?
Most people tolerate it well. The most common side effects are abdominal pain, diarrhea, and red-colored stool (which is harmless discoloration from the supplement itself). At the standard dose in this product (10 mg), these are uncommon.
Does this softgel contain any allergens?
It contains bovine gelatin, so it's not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. If you have a beef allergy, check with your pharmacist before taking it. The olive oil and other ingredients are listed on the label—review them if you have known sensitivities.
How does astaxanthin work in my body?
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid with antioxidant properties—meaning it may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Exactly how it works and which conditions it may benefit remain under study.
Is the evidence strong that this helps with aging skin, brain health, or eye health?
Not yet. The evidence for astaxanthin in age-related skin changes, cognitive decline, Alzheimer disease, macular degeneration, and other conditions is currently rated insufficient—we don't have enough reliable research to say whether it works.

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

Not sure if Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg 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.

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 mg label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 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 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

Extra Strength Astaxanthin 10 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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