Beta-Carotene

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 16, 2024.

What are other common names?

A-Beta-Carotene
Canthaxanthin
Carophyll Red
Carotenes
Carotenoids
Food Orange 8
Mixed Carotenoids
Provitamin A
Provitamine A
Roxanthin Red 10
Tanning Pill
Tanning Tablet

What is this product used for?

Beta-carotene is found in many fruits and vegetables. It is also sold as a dietary supplement product. Beta-carotene helps to stop cell damage. It helps your body make vitamin A. Certain people who are sensitive to the sun may take this product to decrease sun sensitivity. Eating more fruits and vegetables that contain beta-carotene may help to lower the risk of some cancers. It is also used together with other nutrients for macular degeneration, an eye problem that can occur with age. Other people take this product to give a natural looking tan or skin color.

What are the precautions when taking this product?

Always check with your doctor before you use a natural product. Some products may not mix well with other drugs or natural products.
Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breastfeeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks of using this natural product.
Be sure to tell your doctor that you take this product if you are scheduled for surgery.
This product may interfere with some lab tests. Be sure to talk with your doctor about this and all drugs you are taking.
This product may cause a higher risk of cancer in smokers and people who used to smoke. It can also cause a higher risk of cancer in people who have been exposed to asbestos.
Take extra care if you are taking drugs to control cholesterol. These are drugs like atorvastatin, cholestyramine, or niacin.
Take extra care if you use drugs to decrease stomach acid. These are drugs like omeprazole and lansoprazole. These drugs may decrease the amount of beta-carotene in your body.
If you are an alcoholic or drink a lot of alcohol, using this product may increase the risk of cancer and liver problems.
Take extra care and check with your doctor if you have cancer.

What should I watch for?

Yellow or orange color of urine or stool
Yellow or orange color of the palms of the hands, soles of the feet

When do I need to call the doctor?

Signs of a very bad reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Go to the ER right away.
Very bad belly pain
Very bad loose stools

Last Reviewed Date

2023-04-27

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