Fish Oil – Information, Uses, Side Effects and Dosage

By
Frank K. Norman, Pharmacologist
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0
omega-3 polyunsaturated

Drug Trade Name: Animi-3, Divista, Fish Oil, Lovaza, TheraTears Nutrition

Category: Nutritional supplement

Generic Name: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid

Introduction and Quick Information:

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Fish Oil comprises of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids are found in some specific vegetables and fishes. These acids are not produced in the body and are obtained from the food we consume.  They are used for lowering triglycerides and increase the levels of good cholesterol (HDL).

Is It Approved By The U.S. FDA?     

The U.S. FDA has not reviewed fish oil for safety and effectiveness. Consult your pharmacist or doctor for more details. 

Usage and Benefits of Fish Oil:

A large number of benefits of fish oil have been identified so far. Some of them are listed below:

  • Treating rheumatoid arthritis
  • Reducing various risks related to increasing age.
  • Helping you in attaining standard weight.
  • Treating cardiovascular diseases
  • Controlling triglyceride levels in the body.

Fish Oil Side Effects:

Some side effects of this medication are listed below :

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Heartburn
  • Indigestion
  • Bad breath
  • A fishy aftertaste
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Change in vision

The above-listed side-effects are those which are reported in most cases. It is better to talk to your doctor if you feel uncomfortable after taking this medication.    

General Recommended Dosages of Fish Oil:

Fish oil should be taken as per your doctor’s instructions. It is available in the form of capsules that should be swallowed whole at once.

In Case I Miss the Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it at the moment you remember but if the time for next scheduled dose is about to come, it is better to skip the missed dose altogether. Do not try to take an extra dose to make up for the dose missed.  

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In Case I Take Overdose?

If you take an overdose, it can give rise to gastrointestinal problems and other adverse effects. Immediately consult your doctor and seek medical attention in case of overdose.     

Drug Interactions of Fish Oil:

Drugs that interact with fish oil are listed below:

  • cilostazol (Pletal)
  • eptifibatide (Integrilin)
  • bivalirudin (Angiomax)
  • fondaparinux (Arixtra)
  • argatroban (Argatroban)
  • tirofiban hydrochloride (Aggrastat)
  • ticlopidine hydrochloride (Ticlid)
  • orlistat (Alli)
  • prasugrel (Effient)

Lifestyle and Food Habits You Must Follow When on Fish Oil:

Leading a healthy life and adding a well-balanced diet to your food habits is a good option if you are on fish oil medication. So, increasing the quality of the food we take we can minimize the usage of fish oil. Quitting drinking and smoking will be an added advantage. 

How Safe Is Fish Oil For Pregnant Women or Nursing Mothers?

Fish oil is the U.S. FDA pregnancy category C drug. It should only be used if the benefits outweigh risks.

Since it gets secreted in the breastmilk, its use is not recommended.

Complications and Conditions possible due to prolonged use of Fish Oil:

Fish oil though generally used as a supplement but it can prove to be harmful if you use it for a prolonged time. Prolonged use may cause bad breath, diarrhea, nausea, heartburn and other side-effects. 

Availability of Fish Oil:

Fish oil is available in the form of capsules over-the-counter and on doctor’s prescription at various FDA authorized health centers and government hospitals.