Enhanced Oral Bioavailability of Astaxanthin Using Lipid-Based Formulations

Astaxanthin is a lipophilic carotenoid with antioxidant properties, produced by plants and algae and found in marine seafood. Although available as a dietary supplement, its oral bioavailability is limited but can be improved when administered with fats. This open, parallel-group study evaluated the pharmacokinetics of a single oral dose of astaxanthin in healthy male volunteers following administration of lipid-based formulations or a commercially available supplement. Plasma astaxanthin concentrations were measured to assess the rate and extent of absorption. All lipid-based formulations enhanced bioavailability relative to the reference supplement, with the greatest increase observed for a formulation containing glycerol mono- and dioleate, polysorbate 80, and sorbitan monooleate. The findings indicate that lipid-based delivery systems can substantially improve the oral absorption of astaxanthin.

Source : https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12885395