DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Fish Oil, Omega-3 Fatty Acids capsules (Rx)

July 17, 2018

Fish Oil, Omega-3 Fatty Acids capsules (Rx)

What is this medicine?

FISH OIL, OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS (Fish Oil, oh MAY ga 3 fatty AS ids) are essential fats. It is used to treat high triglyceride levels.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Lovaza and Epanova may be taken with or without food. Take Omtryg with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breathing problems

  • chest pain

  • fever, infection

  • unusual bleeding or bruising

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • bad or fishy breath

  • belching

  • body odor

  • diarrhea

  • nausea

  • stomach gas, upset

  • weight gain

What may interact with this medicine?

  • aspirin and aspirin-like medicines

  • herbal products like danshen, dong quai, garlic pills, ginger, ginkgo biloba, horse chestnut, willow bark, and others

  • medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like enoxaparin, heparin, warfarin

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions

  • bleeding problems

  • history of irregular heartbeat

  • lung or breathing disease, like asthma

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids, fish, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Follow a good diet and exercise plan. Taking this medicine does not replace a healthy lifestyle. Some foods that have omega-3 fatty acids naturally are fatty fish like albacore tuna, halibut, herring, mackerel, lake trout, salmon, and sardines.

If you are scheduled for any medical or dental procedure, tell your healthcare provider that you are taking this medicine. You may need to stop taking this medicine before the procedure.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018