Cardax

Cardax is a first-generation, small-molecule prodrug derivative of astaxanthin, a naturally occurring marine carotenoid with potent antioxidant properties. Developed by Cardax Pharmaceuticals (now Cardax, Inc.), the compound was engineered to overcome the poor water solubility and low oral bioavailability of natural astaxanthin for clinical applications. Upon administration, Cardax is metabolized into astaxanthin, which acts by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and modulating inflammatory signaling pathways, including the reduction of C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. While Cardax demonstrated significant efficacy in preclinical animal models for myocardial infarction and hepatic inflammation, its clinical development was eventually superseded by Xancor, a next-generation astaxanthin derivative with an improved pharmacokinetic profile.

Brand names

Cardax

Other names

disodium disuccinate astaxanthin