Lycopene, also called rhodopurpurin, is an antioxidant that may impart health benefits when used medicinally. This carotenoid gives tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables their yellow, orange or red coloring. Lycopene supplements are also available and may help prevent or treat cancer, asthma, or heart or eye diseases. However, additional research is needed to support these purported health benefits of lycopene. Talk with your doctor about the safety of lycopene supplements before you begin treatment.
Potential Side Effects
The safety of lycopene supplements has yet to be fully evaluated in clinical studies. Though lycopene is generally well-tolerated, you may experience mild stomach irritation, which may cause nausea, abdominal pain or diarrhea. Diarrhea may also contribute to stomach cramps, gas or bloating. Prolonged treatment with lycopene may also cause your skin to appear temporarily orange in color -- a side effect referred to as lycopenodermia. Skin discoloration may be embarrassing, but your skin will regain its normal coloring once your blood levels of lycopene diminish. Seek care from your physician if you experience severe stomach pain or persistent diarrhea.
Allergic Reaction
People who are allergic to tomatoes or lycopene should not take lycopene supplements. Improper use of lycopene supplements by hypersensitive people may cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis symptoms include shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, wheezing, chest tightness, facial swelling, dizziness and loss of consciousness. If you exhibit any of these symptoms after taking a dose of lycopene, seek emergency medical care immediately. Without prompt medical intervention, an anaphylactic reaction may cause fatal health complications.
Contraindications
Let your doctor know if you have any health concerns or problems before beginning to take lycopene supplements. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use lycopene, as the safety of this supplement during pregnancy is unknown. Additionally, men who have prostate cancer should not use lycopene unless instructed to do so by their health care provider.
Drug Interactions
Always inform your doctor of any drug or supplement you are taking before taking lycopene supplements. Do not use alcohol in conjunction with lycopene, as alcohol may negatively affect the cell-protective properties of this supplement. As of January 2011, no addition drug interactions are associated with lycopene.
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