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Dietary supplement

Lutein 20 mg Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Jarrow Formulas

Softgel Capsule Category: Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Lutein 20 mg is a dietary supplement by Jarrow Formulas with 2 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for eye health, age-related macular degeneration, cataract prevention.Based on those ingredients, 86 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Zeaxanthin. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Lutein 20 mg by Jarrow Formulas

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

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 2 of its 2 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This softgel contains two active ingredients: lutein (20 mg) and zeaxanthin, both carotenoids found naturally in foods like leafy greens and egg yolks. They work together to filter harmful blue light in the eye and protect the tissue at the back of it.

The capsule itself is made from sunflower oil, bovine gelatin, glycerin, water, beeswax, and mixed tocopherols (a form of vitamin E) — these are all inactive ingredients that hold the formula together and preserve it.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
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
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: eye health and visual function.
  • We looked for evidence on: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Asthenopia (eye strain), Cataracts, Central serous retinopathy, Choroideremia, Diabetic retinopathy — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Lutein is rated "Possibly Effective" for Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Lutein is rated "Possibly Effective" for Cataracts.
  • Also on file: Zeaxanthin is rated "Possibly Effective" for Age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Lutein is possibly effective for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) — a common cause of vision loss in older adults — and for cataracts. It hasn't shown benefit for retinitis pigmentosa, necrotizing enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity, or bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

Zeaxanthin is also possibly effective for AMD. For zeaxanthin's other uses — age-related cognitive decline, Alzheimer disease, asthma, breast cancer, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia — the evidence isn't established in the data we hold.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Lutein Zeaxanthin

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 2 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 2 of 2.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 2 of 2.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Both ingredients are generally well tolerated. Lutein at doses up to 20 mg daily hasn't caused adverse effects in trials.

Neither ingredient has documented adverse effects in the safety data on file. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the safety data rates both as likely safe, though zeaxanthin's safety at supplement doses during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn't been thoroughly studied — if you're pregnant, nursing, or planning to be, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether to use this product.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Lutein Zeaxanthin

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 2 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Zeaxanthin.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 86 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.

If you take antidiabetes drugs (medications to lower blood sugar), double-check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting this product — zeaxanthin may theoretically increase the risk of low blood sugar. No other medication interactions are documented for the ingredients we could check.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Lutein 20 mg is a straightforward eye-health supplement backed by possibly-effective evidence for AMD and cataracts — two common vision problems in older age. If you take diabetes medication, check with your pharmacist or doctor first, since zeaxanthin may theoretically affect blood sugar.

For pregnancy or breastfeeding, the same conversation is worth having with your healthcare provider to make sure it's right for you.

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

Assessment coverage: 2 of 2 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jan 24, 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 Lutein 20 mg, straight from the product label.

Brand Jarrow Formulas
Barcode (UPC) 790011120254
Net contents 60 Softgel(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 24, 2024
DSLD ID 307644
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), No Allergies, Gluten 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 Lutein 20 mg by Jarrow Formulas, 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
790011120254
IngredientAmount% DV
Lutein20 mg--
Zeaxanthin4 mg--

Other ingredients: Sunflower Oil, Bovine Gelatin, Glycerin, Water, Beeswax, 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 Use: Adults take 1 softgel once a day with food or as directed by your qualified healthcare professional.

Formula

Jarrow Formulas Lutein supports eye health and visual function with lutein and zeaxanthin. Lutein and zeaxanthin are natural antioxidant carotenoids found in dark green, leafy vegetables, and are important components of the macular pigment in the eye, which is responsible for focus and color differentiation.

Lutemax 2020 Lutein & Zeaxanthin

20 mg Lutein + 4 mg Zeaxanthin

Precautions

Warning: Consult a healthcare professional before using this product if you are pregnant, nursing, under the age of 18, are taking medication or have a medical condition; if adverse reactions occur, discontinue use.

Warning: Consult a healthcare professional before using this product if you are pregnant, nursing, under the age of 18, are taking medication or have a medical condition; if adverse reactions occur, discontinue use. Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not use if safety seal is damaged or missing.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place.

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)

Lutemax 2020 is a registered trademark of OmniActive Health Technologies, LTD.

Copyright 2023 Jarrow Formulas

Formulation

Visual function Supports macular health

Gluten free

No major allergens.

Note: Color variation due to nature of material.

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

General Statements

Eye health

See for yourself

Lutein 20 mg by Jarrow Formulas label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Lutein 20 mg by Jarrow Formulas

These are the 2 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

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

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Lutein

No known
interactions
20 mg per serving Form: Marigold Petal Extract

Lutein is a plant-based antioxidant pigment that concentrates in the eye, and the best evidence suggests it (often combined with zeaxanthin) may help...

Lutein monograph & interactions

Zeaxanthin

Interacts with
86 drugs
4 mg per serving Form: Marigold Petal Extract

Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid pigment that, along with lutein, concentrates in the macula of the eye and may help support long-term eye health. The stron...

Zeaxanthin monograph & interactions

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

Interaction report

Lutein 20 mg by Jarrow Formulas Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Lutein 20 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
86Drugs
86 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Lutein 20 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.

Zeaxanthin1 drug type · 86 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking zeaxanthin with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
In an animal diabetic model, zeaxanthin has hypoglycemic effects. However, population research has found that increasing intake of dietary zeaxanthin plus lutein does not decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Lutein 20 mg, from the product label.

Jarrow Formulas

See all Jarrow Formulas products
Name
Jarrow Formulas, Inc.
City
Sherman Oaks
State
CA
ZipCode
91403
Phone Number
1-866-459-4154
Web Address
www.Jarrow.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Lutein 20 mg by Jarrow Formulas: Common Questions

Does Lutein 20 mg by Jarrow Formulas interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Lutein 20 mg has a known interaction with 86 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Lutein 20 mg contains 2 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is 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 lutein 20 mg safe to take every day?
Yes. Lutein at this dose is generally well tolerated, and trials have shown no adverse effects at 20 mg daily. That said, the safety data on supplement doses (versus food sources) is smaller than we'd like, so if you have concerns or take other medications, a quick check with your doctor or pharmacist is wise.
Can I take this while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Both lutein and zeaxanthin are rated likely safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Lutein occurs naturally in breast milk, and both ingredients are found in foods. However, the data on concentrated supplement doses during these times isn't extensive, so talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether this product fits your situation.
Will this help my cataracts?
Lutein is possibly effective for cataracts, which means there's some evidence it may help, but it's not proven. If you have cataracts or are concerned about eye health, discuss this supplement with your eye doctor or pharmacist — they can tell you whether it makes sense for you and what to expect.
What is zeaxanthin and why is it in here?
Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid found naturally in foods like spinach and kale. Like lutein, it filters blue light in the eye and protects the retina. The two work together, which is why they're often paired in eye-health supplements.
Can this prevent age-related macular degeneration?
Lutein and zeaxanthin are both possibly effective for AMD — meaning evidence suggests they may help slow or prevent it — but they're not a cure or guaranteed preventive. Think of them as one tool in protecting your vision as you age; talk with your eye doctor about whether this fits into your overall eye-health plan.

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

Not sure if Lutein 20 mg is safe with your meds?

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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.

Lutein 20 mg label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Lutein 20 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 6 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.

Lutein 2 references
  1. Brown L, Rimm EB, Seddon JM, et al. A prospective study of carotenoid intake and risk of cataract extraction in US men. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;70:517-24. PubMed
  2. Chasan-Taber L, Willett WC, Seddon JM, et al. A prospective study of carotenoid and vitamin A intakes and risk of cataract extraction in US women. Am J Clin Nutr 1999;70:509-16. PubMed

See these in context on the Lutein monograph →

Zeaxanthin 4 references
  1. Montonen J, Knekt P, Jarvinen R, Reunanen A. Dietary antioxidant intake and risk of type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care 2004;27:362-6. PubMed
  2. Leermakers ET, Darweesh SK, Baena CP, et al. The effects of lutein on cardiometabolic health across the life course: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Clin Nutr 2016;103(2):481-94. PubMed
  3. Kou L, Du M, Zhang C, Dai Z, Li X, Zhang B. The Hypoglycemic, Hypolipidemic, and Anti-Diabetic Nephritic Activities of Zeaxanthin in Diet-Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Sprague Dawley Rats. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2017;182(3):944-955. PubMed
  4. Xu X, Zhao X, Berde Y, Low YL, Kuchan MJ. Milk and Plasma Lutein and Zeaxanthin Concentrations in Chinese Breast-Feeding Mother-Infant Dyads With Healthy Maternal Fruit and Vegetable Intake. J Am Coll Nutr 2019;38(2):179-184. PubMed

See these in context on the Zeaxanthin 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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