Meta Information
ID:zeaxanthin
Name:Zeaxanthin
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- Meso-zeaxanthin
Intervention Type
therapeutic_agent
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
10
High Cost:
30
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Widely available over-the-counter supplement, often combined with lutein.
Summary
Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid antioxidant that, along with lutein, accumulates in the macula of the eye. Its primary mechanism is filtering high-energy blue light and neutralizing oxidative stress, directly protecting retinal cells from damage. This is highly relevant for healthspan as it helps prevent or slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss that severely impacts quality of life and independence in later years.
Purpose
A carotenoid antioxidant that protects vision by filtering blue light.
Card Summary
A carotenoid antioxidant that accumulates in the eye to protect against age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by filtering blue light and reducing oxidative stress.
Drug Class
Drugs In Class
Empty Array
Impact
Score:
4.5
Justification:
Highly targeted benefit for preserving vision, a key component of healthspan.
Evidence
Grade:
A
Score:
8.5
Justification:
Supported by large-scale human RCTs (AREDS2) for age-related macular degeneration.
Safety
Score:
2.5
Justification:
Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) dietary carotenoid with an excellent safety profile.
Flags
- Almost always formulated and studied in combination with lutein.
- Smokers should be cautious with high-dose carotenoid supplements due to risks associated with beta-carotene.
Verdict
A well-evidenced, safe supplement for protecting long-term vision health.
Created
2026-04-26T17:38:03.721757Z
Model
Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)
Delivery
Route:
oral
Scope:
- systemic
Indication
Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid antioxidant that, along with lutein, accumulates in the macula of the eye. Its primary mechanism is filtering high-energy blue light and neutralizing oxidative stress, direc...
Typical Protocol
- A typical dose is 2 mg daily, often combined with 10 mg of lutein for eye health.