Formulation

Astaxanthin in supplements is derived from natural sources. Natural astaxanthin typically contains other carotenoids and is obtained through algae, Atlantic salmon, and krill. Astaxanthin can also be derived synthetically, but this form differs in its composition and is not approved for direct human consumption. ^[1][2][3]

In published studies, astaxanthin tends to be given in a capsule or tablet or as a food ingredient.^{[4][5][6][7][8][9][10]} Occasionally, it is also seen as a topical application.^[11][12] According to the US dietary supplement label database, astaxanthin may also be found in liquid, powder, or chewable forms as well, though these are less common.^[13]

Range of dosages studied

Dosages of astaxanthin reported range from 0.16 to 24 mg per day, taken over durations ranging from one week to one year.^{[6][14][6][10]} The most frequently reported dosages fall somewhere between 6 and 20 mg per day for up to 12 weeks’ duration.^{[4][5][6][7][8][9][10]}

Astaxanthin supplements currently on the market in the US range from 0.001 to 1,000 mg (with an average of 11 mg) of astaxanthin per dose.^[13]

Several regulatory bodies worldwide, including the US, Canada, Australia/New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union, have established that taking up to 12 mg of astaxanthin per day is unlikely to cause harm.^[1]

Other considerations

Astaxanthin, like all carotenoids, cannot be synthesized in the human body but can be supplemented or consumed in the diet.^[15][16]

Carotenoids are dependent on fat for absorption, so bioavailability may be increased by consuming it at meal time.^[16][15][17] Smoking cigarettes may also reduce the benefit or presence of astaxanthin in the body.^[17]

Current reviews of the evidence tend to focus on supplementation with astaxanthin alone, though it’s not uncommon for it to be combined with other ingredients in commercially available supplements.^{[4][5][6][7][8][9][10]} In the US supplement market, there are currently more than 1,000 astaxanthin-containing supplements available to consumers, but roughly 10% of those list astaxanthin as the only active ingredient. On average, there are about 24 ingredients in addition to astaxanthin listed on the remaining supplement labels.^[13]