fish oil
Fish oil supplements are over-the-counter (OTC) products that contain omega-3 fatty acids. They're often used to support heart health, but since they're dietary supplements, they aren't FDA approved to treat any medical condition. You can find them as soft-gel capsules, liquids, or gummies, and the strength and quality can vary by brand. Some side effects include burping, unpleasant taste, and nausea.
What is Fish oil?
What is Fish oil used for?
How Fish oil works
Fish oil supplements are made of omega-3 fatty acids, mainly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-3s play important roles in the body, such as managing inflammation and supporting brain, eye, and heart health.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Many brands available |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Supplement |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | Lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Over-the-counter |
Side effects of Fish oil
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Bad breath
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Stomach discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Smelly sweat
Fish oil serious side effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Allergic reaction: rash, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing
The following Fish oil side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Bad breath
- Burping
- Fishy aftertaste
- Heartburn
- Upset stomach
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Pros and cons of Fish oil
Pros
- Side effects are usually mild
- Available over the counter
- Helps supplement omega-3s in people who can't get enough from their diet
Cons
- Not regulated by the FDA, so can vary in quality and strength
- Can interact with medications that affect blood clotting
- Larger capsules can be difficult to swallow
Pharmacist tips for Fish oil
- If you have medical conditions or take medications, talk with a healthcare professional before taking fish oil, especially if you have bleeding problems or heart conditions. This helps check for interactions and makes sure it’s safe for you to take.
- Take fish oil with a meal to help your body absorb it better. Food can also lower the chance of stomach upset.
- Taking fish oil with blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin can raise your risk of bleeding. Watch for easy bruising, nosebleeds, or bleeding that’s hard to stop. Always check with a healthcare professional before to know what to look out for.
- Check your fish oil product for how to store it properly. You should generally keep the product at room temperature and protect them from heat, light, and moisture.
Risks and warnings for Fish oil
Fish oil can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Serious allergic reactions
- Risk factors: Allergy to fish or seafood
If you're allergic to fish or seafood, you might have an allergic reaction to fish oil. Talk to a healthcare professional before taking it to stay safe. Stop taking fish oil and get medical help right away if you get hives, swelling in your lips or tongue, or have trouble breathing.
Fish oil dosage
Capsule| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1000mg of | 90 capsules | $7.28 | $0.08 |
Typical dosage for Fish oil
Fish oil contains both DHA and EPA omega-3 fatty acids. There are many different fish oil products available OTC. Follow the directions on your product, and speak to a healthcare professional if you have any questions.
In general, fish oil supplements are typically taken by mouth 1 to 3 times a day with food. For healthy adults, The typical dose is between 250 mg and 500 mg DHA and EPA combined per day. During pregnancy, an extra 100 mg to 200 mg of DHA is often recommended. The FDA considers doses up to 5 grams per day safe when used as directed.
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