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Dietary supplement

Lutein & Zeaxanthin Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Exchange Select

Lutein & Zeaxanthin label
See full label image
Softgel Capsule Category: Non-nutrient/non-botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
Clinical methodology reviewed by · Updated Sep 9, 2026 · Label data from the NIH DSLD
What is this page for?

First and foremost: checking Lutein & Zeaxanthin 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

Lutein & Zeaxanthin is a dietary supplement by Exchange Select 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 Isomers. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

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Check Your Meds Against Lutein & Zeaxanthin by Exchange Select

Ask about any prescription or over-the-counter medication and we check it for interactions with Lutein & Zeaxanthin by Exchange Select — and tell you which ingredient is responsible.

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HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Lutein & Zeaxanthin by Exchange Select

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 Aug 20, 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 2 of its 2 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

This softgel contains 2 active ingredients: lutein and zeaxanthin isomers, both carotenoids (plant pigments) that concentrate in the eye. The capsule itself is made from gelatin, sunflower oil, glycerin, beeswax, and purified water—no fillers or binders beyond what's needed to hold the softgel together.

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: healthy vision and eye health.
  • We looked for evidence on: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Asthenopia (eye strain), Cataracts, Central serous retinopathy, Diabetic retinopathy, Dry eye — 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) and cataracts—two of the most common eye conditions in older adults—but the evidence isn't airtight, so it's not a guarantee. Zeaxanthin is also possibly effective for AMD.

For other conditions the product might claim to help with—retinitis pigmentosa, retinopathy of prematurity, bronchopulmonary dysplasia—the evidence points toward ineffectiveness or insufficient data. The research on zeaxanthin for cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease is too sparse to rate either way.

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.

Lutein from food and typical supplement doses up to 20 mg daily is generally well tolerated with no adverse effects reported. Both ingredients are rated Likely Safe in pregnancy and lactation, but the safety data on concentrated supplement doses during these periods isn't robust—the carotenoids occur naturally in breast milk and in the body, but high-dose supplements haven't been thoroughly studied.

If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new supplement.

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 (insulin, metformin, sulfonylureas, or other blood-sugar-lowering medications), zeaxanthin may increase the risk of low blood sugar—a Moderate interaction. Check your specific medications with the tool on this page and talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting.

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.

This product may be worth considering if you're concerned about age-related macular degeneration or cataracts and want to complement your diet with lutein and zeaxanthin. If you take any diabetes medication, check with your doctor or pharmacist first because zeaxanthin may theoretically lower your blood sugar further.

For anyone else, it's generally well tolerated, but always confirm it's right for your individual situation with your own healthcare provider.

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 Aug 24, 2016.

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 & Zeaxanthin, straight from the product label.

Brand Exchange Select
Barcode (UPC) 614299404595
Net contents 30 Softgel(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Aug 24, 2016
DSLD ID 64239
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
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 & Zeaxanthin by Exchange Select, 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)
UPC/BARCODE
614299404595
IngredientAmount% DV
Lutein25 mg--
Zeaxanthin Isomers5 mg--

Other ingredients: Sunflower Oil, Gelatin, Glycerin, yellow Beeswax, purified Water, Contains 2% or less of

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

Safety sealed. Do not use if printed seal under cap is cut, torn, or missing.

Contains: Soy.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Warning: Pregnant or nursing women, individuals taking medication(s) or persons who have a health condition should consult their physician before using this product.

Formula

Lutein 25 mg & Zeaxanthin 5 mg

Contains: Soy.

General Statements

Targeted health

~ Clinically proven for healthy vision

Quality value

Herbs have a distinct natural odor and may vary in color.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenoids found in vegetables and fruits. They act as antioxidants, protecting cells against the damaging effects of free radicals and help support healthy eyes and vision.

"Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back."

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Directions: Adults - Take one softgel daily with food as a dietary supplement.

Storage

Store at 15(0)-30(0)C (59(0)-86(0)F).

Formulation

No artificial dyes or flavors No gluten ~ No lactose

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.

General

136862-01 518265 USA646824

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

See for yourself

Lutein & Zeaxanthin by Exchange Select label

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

Lutein & Zeaxanthin 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 Lutein & Zeaxanthin by Exchange Select

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 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
25 mg per serving

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 Isomers

Interacts with
86 drugs
5 mg per serving

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 Isomers monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Sunflower Oil, Gelatin, Glycerin, Yellow Beeswax, Purified Water, Contains 2% or less of. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Lutein & Zeaxanthin by Exchange Select Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Lutein & Zeaxanthin?

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

Zeaxanthin Isomers 86

Individual Drug Interactions

The ingredients in Lutein & Zeaxanthin interact with 86 drugs. Click any drug to see the details.

1 of the 2 ingredients in Lutein & Zeaxanthin interact with drugs. Each result below shows which ingredient is responsible. Zeaxanthin Isomers

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Lutein & Zeaxanthin 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.

Zeaxanthin Isomers1 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
Zeaxanthin Isomers full monograph & interactions
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Lutein & Zeaxanthin, from the product label.

Exchange Select

See all Exchange Select products
Name
Your Military Exchanges
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Lutein & Zeaxanthin by Exchange Select: Common Questions

Does Lutein & Zeaxanthin by Exchange Select interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Lutein & Zeaxanthin 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 & Zeaxanthin 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 this safe to take while breastfeeding?
Zeaxanthin and lutein are both rated Likely Safe in pregnancy and lactation, and lutein occurs naturally in breast milk. However, the safety data on concentrated supplement doses while breastfeeding isn't well established, so there isn't enough information to say either way. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether this product is right for you.
What do lutein and zeaxanthin actually do?
Both are carotenoids—plant pigments that accumulate in the eye, particularly in the macula, the part responsible for detailed central vision. They're thought to protect the light-sensitive cells from oxidative damage, which is why they're studied for age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Does this product actually prevent cataracts or macular degeneration?
The evidence says 'possibly effective'—meaning there's some promising research, but it's not definitive proof. This isn't a guarantee, and it works best alongside other protective measures like UV protection, a nutrient-rich diet, and regular eye exams. Talk with your eye doctor about whether this fits your personal situation.
I take diabetes medication. Can I use this?
Zeaxanthin may theoretically increase the risk of low blood sugar with antidiabetes drugs—it's a Moderate interaction. Before you start, check your specific medications using the tool on this page and confirm with your doctor or pharmacist that it's safe for you.
Are there any side effects?
Lutein at typical supplement doses is generally well tolerated with no reported adverse effects, even at 20 mg daily. Zeaxanthin is also generally well tolerated at typical amounts. Neither ingredient lists common side effects in the data we hold.
Do I need to take this with food?
The product facts don't specify whether it should be taken with food, so check the label or ask your pharmacist about the best way to take it for absorption.

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

Not sure if Lutein & Zeaxanthin 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.

Lutein & Zeaxanthin label
Go deeper

The Full Monographs Behind Lutein & Zeaxanthin’s Ingredients

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

Herb & supplement monograph

Lutein

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

Read the full Lutein monograph → Herb & supplement monograph

Zeaxanthin

Interacts with 86 drugs

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 strongest evidence relates to slowing progres...

Read the full Zeaxanthin monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Lutein & Zeaxanthin'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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