Pharmaceuticals
Astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant carotenoid, is being explored in pharmaceutical formulations due to its potential therapeutic applications in treating conditions related to oxidative stress, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases. It primarily works by leveraging its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
However, its poor water solubility often requires specialized delivery systems like nanoemulsions or liposomes to enhance bioavailability and stability within the body.
We are also capable of developing astaxanthin-based supplements for daily use, targeting a variety of health needs, including brain, joints, eye, cardiovascular, and immune health.
Key Applications of Astaxanthin in Pharmaceutical Formulations
- Neurodegenerative diseases: Potential benefits for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
- Cardiovascular health: May aid in cardiovascular disease prevention.
- Eye health: Could help protect against age-related macular degeneration.
- Skin health: Investigated for wrinkles, sun damage, and elasticity improvement.
- Cancer treatment: Explored as a supportive treatment for cancer.
Challenges in Formulating Astaxanthin
- Low water solubility: Difficult to incorporate into aqueous formulations.
- Stability concerns: Susceptible to degradation when exposed to heat, light, and oxygen.
Strategies to Improve Astaxanthin Delivery
- Nanoencapsulation: Using liposomes or polymeric micelles for better solubility and stability.
- Emulsions: Enhancing bioavailability through oil-in-water emulsions.
- Cyclodextrin complexes: Improving solubility and stability.
Important Considerations
- Source of astaxanthin: Quality varies based on extraction method (e.g., algae, krill oil).
- Dosage forms: Available in capsules, tablets, soft gels, topical creams, or eye drops.
References
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8762669/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378517324012511
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10034004/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1043661821000633
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9259778/
- https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/astaxanthin.htm
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9655540/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9495775/
- https://aapsopen.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s41120-024-00099-8