From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to have potential benefits in reducing oxidative stress, supporting eye health, improving skin appearance, enhancing exercise performance, and supporting cardiovascular health, with a recommended daily dose of 4-12 mg, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1. Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring reddish pigment belonging to the carotenoid family that gives salmon, shrimp, and some other seafood their pink-orange color. It's a powerful antioxidant that's approximately 550 times stronger than vitamin E and 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C, as demonstrated in a study published in 2021 1. Astaxanthin is primarily derived from microalgae called Haematococcus pluvialis, though it can also be produced synthetically. As a dietary supplement, astaxanthin is typically taken in doses ranging from 4-12 mg daily, with many studies using 4-6 mg for general health benefits. Some of the key benefits of astaxanthin include:
- Reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, as shown in a study published in 2009 2
- Supporting eye health and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration, as suggested by a study published in 2021 3
- Improving skin appearance and reducing the signs of aging, as demonstrated in a study published in 2021 1
- Enhancing exercise performance and reducing muscle damage, as shown in a study published in 2021 1
- Supporting cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of heart disease, as suggested by a study published in 2012 4 Its unique molecular structure allows it to span cell membranes, protecting both the inner and outer layers from free radical damage, which explains its exceptional antioxidant properties. Unlike some other antioxidants, astaxanthin doesn't become pro-oxidative at higher doses, making it generally safe for regular consumption, as demonstrated in a study published in 2006 5.