Lutein

Lutein suggested uses include for prevention of macular degeneration. There is a correlation between a high intake of lutein and a lower incidence of macular degeneration and cataracts. 

Lutein is one of two major carotenoids found as a color pigment in the human eye (macula and retina). It is thought to function as a light filter, protecting the eye tissues from sunlight damage.

• Lutein is available under various brand names: Brazilian cocoa, lutein gum, lutein paste, guaranine, Paullinia cupana, Uabano, Uaranzeiro, zoom

There are no known side effects of lutein. Lutein is LIKELY SAFE when taken by mouth appropriately.

Children: Lutein is LIKELY SAFE when used appropriately. A specific product (LUTEINofta, SOOFT Italia SpA) containing lutein has been safely used in infants for 36 weeks.

Seek medical care or call 911 at once if you have the following serious side effects:

• Severe headache, confusion, slurred speech, arm or leg weakness, trouble walking, loss of coordination, feeling unsteady, very stiff muscles, high fever, profuse sweating, or tremors;
• Serious eye symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights;
• Serious heart symptoms include fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats; fluttering in the chest; shortness of breath; sudden dizziness, lightheartedness, or passing out.

This document does not contain all possible side effects and others may occur. Check with your physician for additional information about side effects.

Suggested Dosing

• 6-20 mg/day

For an eye disease called age-related macular degeneration (AMD): 

• 6-12 mg of lutein daily, either through diet or supplementation
• 10-20 mg of lutein daily for reducing symptoms of AMD

For cataracts: For preventing cataracts

• 6-12 mg of lutein daily, either through diet or supplementation
• 15 mg of lutein daily three times weekly for reducing symptoms

Dosing Considerations – Should be Given as Follows:

• See "Suggested Dosing"

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor, health care provider or pharmacist first.

• Lutein has no known severe, serious, moderate, or mild interactions with other drugs.

This information does not contain all possible interactions or adverse effects. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share this information with your doctor and pharmacist. Check with your health care professional or doctor for additional medical advice, or if you have health questions, concerns, or more information about this medicine.

Warnings

• This medication contains lutein
• Do not take lutein if you are allergic to lutein or any ingredients contained in this drug
• Keep out of reach of children
• In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately

Contraindications

• none

Effects of Drug Abuse

• No information available

Short-Term Effects

• See "What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Lutein?"

Long-Term Effects

• See "What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Lutein?"

Cautions

• None

Pregnancy and Lactation

• There is no information available about the use of lutein during pregnancy or while breastfeeding
• Consult your doctor before taking it