neuroprotectiveEVIDENCEAUSOTC

Lutein + Zeaxanthin

aka Macular pigment · Marigold extract

Macular carotenoids that protect retinal tissue from oxidative damage. Multiple RCTs support reduced age-related macular degeneration progression.

Dose range10–20mg

Half-life—h

Onset—min

Safety5/5high evidence base

Mechanism of action

Concentrated in the macula lutea (yellow spot) of the retina, where they absorb high-energy blue light and quench reactive oxygen species. The 5:1 lutein:zeaxanthin ratio is preferred for macular pigment density support. Crosses the blood-retinal barrier specifically.

History

The carotenoid composition of the macula was characterised in the 1980s. The AREDS2 trial (2013) established lutein + zeaxanthin as a replacement for beta-carotene in age-related macular degeneration progression prevention — beta-carotene was implicated in increased lung cancer risk in smokers, while lutein/zeaxanthin showed similar visual benefits without that risk. Unscheduled globally.

Benefits

Age-related macular degeneration progression
EVIDENCEA
AREDS2 trial.
Visual performance and contrast sensitivity
EVIDENCEB
Multiple RCTs.
Cognitive function in older adults
EVIDENCEB
Lindbergh 2018.

Side effects

Yellow-orange skin discoloration (high dose)uncommonmild

Cited research

AREDS2: lutein/zeaxanthin for AMD progression2013
PMID 23644932 ↗
Lutein/zeaxanthin for cognitive function (Lindbergh)2018
PMID 29641873 ↗
Macular carotenoids and visual performance (Stringham)2011
PMID 21945527 ↗

Where to buy

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Vendor	Product	Size	Price	Per unit
Nootropics DepotFeatured 4.8	Lutein + Zeaxanthin — Nootropics Depot	—	See vendor	—	Shop Ad
Life Extension 4.3	Lutein + Zeaxanthin — Life Extension	—	See vendor	—	Shop Ad
Double Wood Supplements 4.4	Lutein + Zeaxanthin — Double Wood	—	See vendor	—	Shop Ad
Amazon Marketplace 3.5	Lutein + Zeaxanthin — Amazon	—	See vendor	—	Shop Ad

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