Omega-3 fish oil and your prescription medications.
Many of our customers ask us if our ultra-purified omega-3 supplements are safe to take with their prescription medications.
The short answer to that question is, yes, they are safe – with one exception. If you are taking blood thinning medication, you should use caution when supplementing with omega-3 as there is currently a concern in the medical community about prolonged bleed times in rare cases.
Our general advice is that you always consult your physician when adding PharmaOmega omega-3 fish oil to your health routine.
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Following are answers from our expert Wellness Coaching staff to some of your specific questions.
Q: How will the omega-3 interact with prescription medications?
A: Omega-3 fats from fish (EPA and DHA) are a natural part of a normal, healthy diet. Everyone needs to eat some omega-3 fat. In general, EPA and DHA do not interfere with medications. There is some concern of risk with taking higher doses of omega-3s with blood thinning medications. In some instances, however, omega-3s help medications work better. After all, omega-3s improve your nutritional status.
Q: I am taking Lipitor. Is it okay for me to take omega-3?
A: Research in humans has shown that purified fish oil products (e.g PharmaOmega life) can be taken along with medications such as Lipitor; concentrated omega-3 supplements have even been shown to effectively complement these types of medications. Fish oil improves overall blood lipids, improves blood pressure and reduces triglycerides. In addition, omega-3s in fish oil promote better circulation and overall heart health.
Q: I am taking Concerta. Is it okay for me to take omega-3 too?
A: Several research studies have shown excellent benefits from taking purified fish oil products for attention deficit issues. In some of these studies, individuals remained on their medication and realized additional benefits with no adverse interactions. Omega-3 EPA and DHA are essential fats that we need in our diet, and because they provide the brain and body with important nutrients, they often compliment other therapies.
Q: Is PharmaOmega safe to take with Coumadin?
A: Some studies have shown that omega-3 can increase bleeding times, although typically not to an unsafe extent. Therefore, to be safe, if you are taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner) like Coumadin, have your physician periodically check your clotting times to ensure that they remain at acceptable levels.
Q: My doctor has me on a diuretic for my heart disease. Is omega-3 okay for me to take?
A: Omega-3 fish oil is highly beneficial to those who have, or are at risk for, heart disease. If you are currently taking a diuretic like HydroDiuril or Lozol, be sure to consult your doctor as dosage levels of the medication may need to be adjusted when used in conjunction with omega-3.
Q: I’m on a beta-blocker. Can I take omega-3 fish oil?
A: Omega-3 has been shown to benefit those who suffer from high blood pressure or hypertension. Therefore, if you have been prescribed a beta-blocker like Tenormin or Lopressor for hypertension, high blood pressure, angina, chest pain or heart attack, omega-3 can have an additive benefit.
Q: Can I take omega-3 fish oil for generalized anxiety disorder along with sertraline (Zoloft)?
A: Research indicates that omega-3 fish oil does have benefits for those who suffer from mood disorders like anxiety. There is no contraindication for sertraline (Zoloft) and omega-3.
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