Omega-3 Fish Oil Capsule: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Omega-3 Fish Oil Capsule contains omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and belongs to the nutraceutical products class. It is used together with diet and exercise to help lower triglyceride levels in the blood, which may reduce the risk of heart-related problems. The capsules should be swallowed whole, taken with food, and used alongside a healthy diet, exercise, and weight-control routine.

What is Omega-3 Fish Oil Capsule

Fish Oil capsules contain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are found in oils from certain fish, vegetables, and other plant sources. These fatty acids are not made by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplements.

Omega-3 Fish Oil Capsule uses

• Used together with diet and exercise to help lower triglyceride levels in the blood
• May also be used for other purposes not listed in the medication guide

Benefits of Omega-3 Fish Oil Capsule

• Helps lower triglyceride levels, which can reduce risk of coronary artery disease, heart disease, and stroke
• May help raise HDL (good) cholesterol and lower blood pressure
• May support brain and eye function because DHA is concentrated in these tissues
• May help reduce inflammation

How Omega-3 Fish Oil Capsule works

Omega-3 fatty acids lower the amount of triglycerides your body produces. High triglycerides can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Omega-3 Fish Oil Capsule dosage

Take exactly as directed on the label or as prescribed by your doctor; do not take more or for longer than recommended. Swallow the capsule whole; do not puncture or open it. It works best when taken with food. This medicine is only part of a full treatment plan that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control, so follow those routines closely. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for your next dose; do not double up. Your blood may need to be tested regularly to check how well the medicine is working.

Available forms and strengths

Capsule

Side effects of Omega-3 Fish Oil Capsule

Common

• Back pain
• Unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth
• Upset stomach, belching
• Mild skin rash
• Fishy aftertaste, nausea, loose stools, indigestion

Serious

• Fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms
• Chest pain
• Uneven heartbeats
• Signs of allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat

Warnings and precautions

• Do not use Fish Oil if you are allergic to fish or soybeans.
• Do not give this medicine to anyone under 18 years old.
• There may be other drugs that can interact with Fish Oil, so tell your doctor about all the medicines, vitamins, and herbal products you use before starting a new one.
• People taking blood thinners such as warfarin, or antiplatelet drugs, should check with their doctor first because of a possible increased bleeding risk.
• It isn't known whether Fish Oil will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using it.
• It isn't known whether omega-3 fatty acids pass into breast milk or could harm a nursing baby. Don't use this medicine while breastfeeding without telling your doctor.
• Inform your doctor if you take blood-thinning medicines.
• Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this medicine if you have liver disease.
• Avoid drinking alcohol, as it can raise triglycerides and may make your condition worse. Ask your doctor before use if you drink more than two alcoholic drinks a day.
• Use caution before surgery or dental procedures.

Storage

• Store Fish Oil at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.

When to see a doctor

• Stop using Fish Oil and get emergency medical help if you think you've taken too much, or if you notice signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Stop using Fish Oil and call your doctor right away if you have fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, chest pain, or an irregular heartbeat.
• Contact your doctor if you have ongoing stomach or gut symptoms, unusual bruising or bleeding, or any other concerning symptoms after starting fish oil.

Alternatives

• Chia Seed Oil
• Algal Omega-3 Supplements
• Flaxseed Oil Capsules
• Krill Oil Capsules