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Dietary supplement

MaculaPF Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Jarrow Formulas

Softgel Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

MaculaPF is a dietary supplement by Jarrow Formulas with 4 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for eye and macular health, age-related macular degeneration (amd), protection from blue light.Based on those ingredients, 761 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Astaxanthin, Zeaxanthin, Choline. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of MaculaPF 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 5 of its 5 active ingredients.
  • “Zeaxanthin” is listed as a grouped ingredient — the label gives one combined amount (13 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

MaculaPF contains five active ingredients focused on eye health. Lutein and zeaxanthin (in two forms: RR-Zeaxanthin and Meso-Zeaxanthin) are carotenoids — plant pigments your eye uses to filter blue light and protect itself.

Astaxanthin is another carotenoid with antioxidant effects. Choline supports the structure of cell membranes and plays a role in brain signaling.

The product also includes inactive ingredients like sunflower lecithin, gelatin capsule material, oils, and glycerin.

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: support eye macula health and blue light protection.
  • We looked for evidence on: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Asthenopia (eye strain), Cataracts, Central serous retinopathy, Choroideremia, 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 and zeaxanthin (both forms) are rated Possibly Effective for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) — the most common cause of vision loss in older adults. Lutein is also Possibly Effective for cataracts.

Astaxanthin has insufficient evidence to rate for any condition we hold data on. Choline has insufficient evidence for age-related cognitive decline and is rated Possibly Ineffective for athletic performance.

The evidence isn't established for most other uses listed in our data.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Zeaxanthin Astaxanthin Choline Lutein

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 3 of the 4 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 4 of 4.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 4 of 4.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Lutein and both zeaxanthin forms are generally well tolerated at typical supplement doses. Lutein doses up to 20 mg daily have not caused adverse effects.

Astaxanthin is generally well tolerated, though long-term safety data are limited; at typical doses it may cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, or red-colored stool, and higher doses (40 mg daily) have rarely caused severe stomach pain. Choline is well tolerated at appropriate amounts but can cause fishy body odor; doses above 9 grams daily have caused nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating.

There is a daily upper limit of 3.5 grams for choline from supplements. For pregnancy, astaxanthin safety data are not sufficient, so it's best to avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Zeaxanthin supplements in pregnancy are not well studied, so use caution. Choline is rated Likely Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding at advised doses — it's actually important during these times — but use only as your doctor recommends.

Lutein is also Likely Safe, though supplement safety while breastfeeding is not well studied. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about any pregnancy or breastfeeding questions.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Zeaxanthin Astaxanthin Choline Lutein

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?
  • 3 of the 4 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Choline, Astaxanthin, Zeaxanthin.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 762 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.

Check your medications against this product if you take drugs metabolized by your liver's CYP3A4 or CYP2B6 enzymes (astaxanthin may lower their levels), antidiabetes drugs (zeaxanthin may increase low blood sugar risk), or atropine (choline may reduce its effects). The CYP3A4 and CYP2B6 groups include many common medications — use the search tool on this page to be sure.

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.

MaculaPF targets eye health with carotenoids and choline; lutein and zeaxanthin show promise for AMD and cataracts. Because astaxanthin may affect how your liver clears certain medications and zeaxanthin may lower blood sugar, anyone on diabetes drugs or on medications metabolized by the liver should check their exact prescriptions using the tool on this page before starting.

If you take atropine or have pregnancy or breastfeeding questions, talk with your pharmacist.

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

Assessment coverage: 5 of 5 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 MaculaPF, straight from the product label.

Brand Jarrow Formulas
Barcode (UPC) 790011290742
Net contents 30 Softgel(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 24, 2024
DSLD ID 307645
Product type Other Combinations
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 MaculaPF 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
30
UPC/BARCODE
790011290742
IngredientAmount% DV
Zeaxanthin13 mg--
Astaxanthin4 mg--
Choline10 mg2%
RR-Zeaxanthin4 mg--
Lutein20 mg--
Meso-Zeaxanthin9 mg--

Other ingredients: Sunflower Lecithin, Bovine Gelatin, Water, Glycerin, Caramel, Avocado Oil, Sunflower Oil

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, preferably with a fat-containing meal, or as directed by your qualified healthcare professional.

Formulation

Jarrow Formulas MaculaPF (Protective Factors) is a synergistic combination of three key antioxidant carotenoids to support the eyes' maculae in blue light from all types of screens, LED lighting, and sunlight. The macula is responsible for focus and color.

Blue light protection Supports eye health

Non-GMO Gluten free

No major allergens

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. OmniXan-RS is a registered trademark of OmniActive Health Technologies, LTD. AstaPure is a registered trademark of Algatechnologies Ltd.

AstaPure Lutemax 2020 Lutein & Zeaxanthin OmniXan-rs Rs-Zeaxanthin Copyright 2023 Jarrow Formulas

Formula

Carotenoid complex Lutein Meso-Zeaxanthin Astaxanthin

FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

General Statements

Eye health

See for yourself

MaculaPF by Jarrow Formulas label

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

What’s inside

The Ingredients in MaculaPF by Jarrow Formulas

These are the 4 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Softgel(s) Dosage formSoftgel Capsule Servings per container30 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.

Zeaxanthin

Interacts with
86 drugs
13 mg per serving Form: Marigold

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

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...

Astaxanthin monograph & interactions

Choline

Interacts with
16 drugs
10 mg per serving Form: Sunflower Lecithin

Choline is an essential nutrient your body needs for liver function, brain health, and nerve signaling, and many people get enough from foods like egg...

Choline monograph & interactions

Lutein

No known
interactions
20 mg per serving Form: Marigold

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

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

Interaction report

MaculaPF by Jarrow Formulas Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against MaculaPF?

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
761Drugs
751 Moderate 10 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Choline 16

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

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

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

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

Choline1 drug type · 16 drugs

Atropine

Theoretically, choline might decrease the effects of atropine in the brain.
Animal research shows that administering choline one hour before administering atropine can attenuate atropine-induced decreases in brain levels of acetylcholine. Theoretically, concomitant use of choline and atropine may decrease the effects of atropine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for MaculaPF, 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

MaculaPF by Jarrow Formulas: Common Questions

Does MaculaPF by Jarrow Formulas interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, MaculaPF has a known interaction with 761 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
MaculaPF contains 4 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.
Does MaculaPF actually help with macular degeneration?
Lutein and zeaxanthin are rated Possibly Effective for age-related macular degeneration based on the evidence we hold. Astaxanthin doesn't have enough reliable evidence to rate. Talk with your eye doctor about whether this supplement makes sense for your specific situation.
Is it safe to take this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Choline and both zeaxanthin and lutein forms are rated Likely Safe, but astaxanthin safety data in pregnancy and breastfeeding are not sufficient — the safety data advise against it during these times. Zeaxanthin and lutein supplement safety while breastfeeding also isn't well studied. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
What are the side effects?
Lutein and zeaxanthin are generally well tolerated with no or minimal side effects at typical doses. Astaxanthin may cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, or red-colored stool. Choline can cause fishy body odor, and at high doses (9 grams or more daily) may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating — though the doses in this supplement are much lower.
Can I take this with my diabetes medication?
Zeaxanthin theoretically may increase the risk of low blood sugar when combined with antidiabetes drugs. Check your exact medications and doses using the tool on this page, and talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting.
What is choline doing in an eye health supplement?
Choline supports cell membrane structure and brain signaling. While we hold insufficient evidence that it helps with age-related cognitive decline, it's included in many formulations for broad nutritional support.
Does this product have fillers or other ingredients I should know about?
The active ingredients are the five carotenoids and choline. The product also contains inactive ingredients like sunflower lecithin, gelatin capsule material, oils, and glycerin to hold the softgel together.

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

Not sure if MaculaPF 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.

MaculaPF label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

MaculaPF'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 23 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.

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 →

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 →

Choline 14 references
  1. Yates AA, Schlicker SA, Suitor CW. Dietary reference intakes: The new basis for recommendations for calcium and related nutrients, B vitamins, and choline. J Am Diet Assoc 1998;98:699-706. PubMed
  2. Cho E, Willett WC, Colditz GA, et al. Dietary choline and betaine and the risk of distal colorectal adenoma in women. J Natl Cancer Inst 2007;99:1224-31. PubMed
  3. Schmidt, C., Abicht, A., Krampfl, K., Voss, W., Stucka, R., Mildner, G., Petrova, S., Schara, U., Mortier, W., Bufler, J., Huebner, A., and Lochmuller, H. Congenital myasthenic syndrome due to a novel missense mutation in the gene encoding choline acetyl
  4. Tamminga, C., Smith, R. C., Chang, S., Haraszti, J. S., and Davis, J. M. Depression associated with oral choline. Lancet 10-23-1976;2(7991):905. PubMed
  5. Wood, J. L. and Allison, R. G. Effects of consumption of choline and lecithin on neurological and cardiovascular systems. Fed.Proc. 1982;41(14):3015-3021.
  6. Growdon, J. H. and Gelenberg, A. J. Choline and lecithin administration to patients with tardive dyskinesia. Trans.Am.Neurol.Assoc. 1978;103:95-99.
  7. Smith, C. M., Swash, M., Exton-Smith, A. N., Phillips, M. J., Overstall, P. W., Piper, M. E., and Bailey, M. R. Choline therapy in Alzheimer's disease. Lancet 8-5-1978;2(8084):318. PubMed
  8. Morrison, L. M. and W. F. Gonzales. Choline in coronary atherosclerosis. Amer.Heart J. 1950;39:729.
  9. Christie, J. G. Blackburn 1. M. Glen A. I. M. Zeisel S. Shering A. & Yates C. M. Effects of choline and lecithin on CSF choline levels and on cognitive functioning in patients with presenile dementia of the Alzheimer type. Nutrition and the brain 1979;5
  10. Sidhu N, Davies S, Nadarajah A, et al. Oral choline supplementation for postoperative pain. Br J Anaesth 2013;111(2):249-55. PubMed
  11. Wozniak JR, Fuglestad AJ, Eckerle JK, et al. Choline supplementation in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders has high feasibility and tolerability. Nutr Res. 2013;33(11):897-904. PubMed
  12. Wozniak JR, Fuglestad AJ, Eckerle JK, et al. Choline supplementation in children with fetal alcohol disorders: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2015;102(5): 1113-25.
  13. Ross RG, Hunter SK, McCarthy L, et al. Perinatal choline effects on neonatal pathophysiology related to later schizophrenia risk. Am J Psychiatry. 2013;170(3):290-8. PubMed
  14. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Choline. Dietary Reference Intakes: Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B-6, Vitamin B-12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press; 1998:390-422.

See these in context on the Choline monograph →

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 →

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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