Usage
This combination is primarily used as a dietary supplement to support overall health, particularly eye health. It is not classified as a pharmaceutical drug and thus doesn’t fall under a specific pharmacological classification like antibiotics or analgesics. Instead, it’s considered a nutraceutical.
The individual components have specific functions: Astaxanthin, lutein, lycopene, and zeaxanthin act as antioxidants, protecting cells from oxidative stress. Lutein and zeaxanthin concentrate in the eye’s macula, filtering harmful blue light and potentially reducing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataract risk. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are omega-3 fatty acids crucial for cell membrane integrity, anti-inflammatory processes, and cholesterol regulation. DHA is particularly important for brain and eye health.
Alternate Names
There’s no official alternate name for this specific combination. DHA and EPA are often referred to as omega-3 fatty acids. Brand names vary depending on the manufacturer. Some sources mention “Briyo OptiVital” as an example.
How It Works
Pharmacodynamics: The combination works through synergistic actions of its components:
- Antioxidant Effects: Astaxanthin, lutein, lycopene, and zeaxanthin neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage.
- Eye Health: Lutein and zeaxanthin accumulate in the macula, acting as a natural blue light filter. DHA supports retinal function.
- Anti-inflammatory and Lipid-Lowering Effects: EPA and DHA exert anti-inflammatory effects and may contribute to triglyceride reduction and HDL cholesterol elevation.
Pharmacokinetics: Absorption, metabolism, and elimination haven’t been studied extensively for this specific combination. Individually, each component has distinct pharmacokinetic properties.
- Carotenoids (astaxanthin, lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin): Absorbed with fats in the diet, metabolized in the liver, and eliminated through bile and feces.
- Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA, EPA): Absorbed in the small intestine, incorporated into cell membranes, and metabolized like other fatty acids.
Dosage
Standardized dosing guidelines are not established for this combination as it’s a dietary supplement. Recommendations vary widely based on product formulation and individual needs.
Standard Dosage
Adults:
Dosages vary based on product formulations. Consulting the product label and a healthcare professional is essential. Typical ranges found in supplements are:
- Astaxanthin: 2–10 mg
- Lutein: 10–20 mg
- Zeaxanthin: 2–6 mg
- Lycopene: 6–10 mg
- DHA: 175–350 mg
- EPA: 325–650 mg
Children:
Supplementation in children requires guidance from a pediatrician or healthcare professional.
Special Cases:
Dose adjustments might be necessary in individuals with liver or kidney disease, bleeding disorders, or those taking interacting medications.
Clinical Use Cases
As a dietary supplement, this combination doesn’t have specific dosage recommendations for clinical settings like intubation, surgical procedures, mechanical ventilation, ICU use, or emergency situations.
Dosage Adjustments
Dosage adjustments should be personalized based on individual health status, comorbid conditions, and concomitant medications.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, stomach pain, increased bowel movements, diarrhea), fishy burps, skin discoloration (yellowing).
Rare but Serious Side Effects:
Increased bleeding risk (especially with anticoagulants), interactions with certain medications.
Long-Term Effects:
Long-term effects are not well-established, but chronic high doses of some components could have potential adverse effects.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR):
Clinically significant ADRs are rare. Allergic reactions are possible.
Contraindications
Known hypersensitivity to any component, certain metabolic disorders affecting fat processing, fish or shellfish allergy (for omega-3s).
Drug Interactions
May interact with anticoagulants (warfarin, aspirin), blood pressure medications (beta-blockers), cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins), vitamin E, and some other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding at levels typically consumed in food. Excessive supplementation should be avoided without medical advice. Adequate DHA intake during pregnancy and breastfeeding is crucial for infant development.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: Synergistic antioxidant, eye health support, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering actions.
- Side Effects: Generally mild gastrointestinal issues, fishy burps.
- Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, relevant metabolic disorders, fish/shellfish allergy.
- Drug Interactions: Anticoagulants, certain blood pressure and cholesterol medications, vitamin E.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Generally safe at dietary levels.
- Dosage: Varies widely depending on the product; consult a healthcare professional.
- Monitoring Parameters: No specific monitoring is typically required for supplement use.
Popular Combinations
This combination itself represents a popular blend of nutrients for eye and overall health. It may be combined with other vitamins and minerals in some supplements.
Precautions
Pre-screening for allergies and underlying health conditions is advisable before starting any new supplement. Caution is recommended in patients with liver or kidney disease, bleeding disorders, or those taking interacting medications.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for this combination?
A: No standardized dosage exists. Consult product labels and a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Typical ranges include 2–10 mg astaxanthin, 10–20 mg lutein, 2–6 mg zeaxanthin, 6–10 mg lycopene, 175–350 mg DHA, and 325–650 mg EPA per day.
Q2: Who should avoid this supplement?
A: Individuals with allergies to any of the components, certain metabolic disorders affecting fat processing, fish or shellfish allergy (if including omega-3 fatty acids).
Q3: What are the potential side effects?
A: Common side effects are generally mild and include gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, stomach pain, altered bowel movements) and fishy burps.
Q4: Can pregnant or breastfeeding women take this combination?
A: It’s generally considered safe at levels consumed through food. Consult a doctor before taking any supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding, especially for omega-3 dosage recommendations.
Q5: How does this combination benefit eye health?
A: Lutein and zeaxanthin act as blue light filters in the macula, while astaxanthin, DHA, and EPA offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection.
Q6: Does this combination interact with any medications?
A: It might interact with anticoagulants (warfarin, aspirin), blood pressure medications, cholesterol-lowering drugs, vitamin E, and some other medications. Consult with a healthcare professional about potential interactions.
Q7: Are there any long-term risks associated with this combination?
A: Long-term risks are not extensively studied. Consult a physician before prolonged use, especially at high doses.
Q8: What is the best way to take this supplement?
A: Taking the supplement with a meal containing some fat aids absorption of the fat-soluble components.
Q9: Can this combination be used to treat medical conditions?
A: This combination is a dietary supplement, not a medicine. It’s meant to support overall health, not treat specific medical conditions.
Q10: Is this combination suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
A: Some formulations may not be suitable for vegans due to the source of omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fish oil). Algae-based omega-3 sources are available for vegan-friendly options.
