What is fish oil?
Fish oil capsules are rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fats. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fats are found in oils derived from specific kinds of fish, vegetables, and other plants. These fatty acids cannot be produced by the body and are required to be consumed through the diet. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids function by reducing the body's generation of triglycerides. Triglycerides that are high in levels can result in coronary artery diseases and heart disease, as well as stroke. Fish oil can be used along with exercise and diet to reduce the amount of triglyceride in the blood. Fish oil can also be used for reasons not mentioned in this guideline for medication.
Warnings
Consume fish oil exactly as directed on the label or as directed by your physician. Don't take it in large doses or for longer periods than suggested. Suck your fish oil capsule whole. Don't puncture or open the capsule. Fish oil is just one component of a comprehensive treatment programme that involves exercise, diet, and weight management. Be sure to follow your diet, medications, and exercise regimens carefully.
There could be other drugs that interfere when used in conjunction with fish oil. Discuss with your physician the medications you are taking. This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter vitamins, herbal products, and vitamin products. Do not begin any new medication without first talking to your physician. Stop taking fish oil and get emergency medical assistance if you suspect you've taken too much medication or if you exhibit any of these symptoms that indicate an allergy, such as trouble breathing, hives, or swelling of your lips, face, or tongue. Less serious adverse reactions are more likely to occur, and you might not experience any whatsoever. Discuss with your doctor any side effects you think are odd or bothersome.
Before taking this drug
Do not take fish oil if you are sensitive to soybeans or fish. Consult a pharmacist or doctor regarding this medication in the event that you suffer from:
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Diabetes;
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Liver disease;
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A pancreas disorder;
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Thyroid that is underactive;
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If you consume more than two alcoholic drinks daily.
FDA classification of pregnancy C It is not clear how fish oil will harm an unborn baby. Consult your doctor if you are expecting or planning to become pregnant while taking fish oil. It isn't known if omega-3 polyunsaturated fats pass into breast milk or if they can harm nursing babies. Avoid using fish oil without telling your doctor that you are breastfeeding your baby. Don't give this medication to anyone younger than 18 years of age.
How to take Fish Oil?
Make sure to use fish oil exactly as directed on the label or as recommended by your physician. Avoid using in larger quantities, in smaller quantities, or for a longer period than is recommended. Take a sip and swallow the fish oil capsule whole. Don't puncture or open the capsule. Fish oil works best if you consume it along with your food. To ensure that this medication is working for you, Your blood will need to be checked frequently. Visit your doctor regularly.
Fish oil is just one component of a total treatment programme that involves exercise, diet, and weight management. Be sure to follow your diet, medications, and exercise regimens carefully. Keep the fish oil within the room at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Don't freeze it.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Do the dose you missed as quickly as you can remember. Do not take any missed doses if it's close to the time of the next dose. Don't take any extra medication to make up for the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose??
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Avoid this
Beware of eating foods high in cholesterol or fat. Fish oil isn't as effective in reducing your cholesterol levels if you don't adhere to the diet guidelines that your doctor has recommended.
Beware of drinking alcohol. It may increase the amount of triglycerides in your blood and make your condition worse.
Side effects of Fish oil
Contact a medical professional immediately. If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction to fish oil: trouble breathing; hives and swelling of your lips, face, and tongue. You should stop using fish oil and call your physician immediately. If you suffer from any of the following serious adverse reactions:
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Fever, chills,
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Body aches,
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Fever and
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Flu symptoms.
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Chest pain
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Uneven heartbeats.
Less severe fish oil side effects may include:
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Back discomfort;
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An unusual or unpleasant taste that you can detect in your mouth.
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Nausea,
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Vomiting,
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Upset stomach,
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Spitting up
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A mild skin eruption.
This isn't an exhaustive list of possible side effects, and others could happen. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on the effects. You can report symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drugs
Discuss with your doctor all other medications you take, particularly:
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Oestrogens (birth hormone control tablets or hormone replacement pills);
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A blood thinner, such as warfarin (Coumadin and Jantoven);
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Beta-blocker like atenolol (Tenormin, Tenoretic), carvingilol (Coreg), theobromol (Normodyne, Trandate), metoprolol (Dutoprol, Lopressor, Toprol), nadolol (Corgard), propranolol (Inderal, InnoPran), sotalol (Betapace), and many others; or
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A diuretic (water pill) like chlorothiazide (Diuril), hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL, Microzide), chlorthalidone (Hygroton, Thalitone), indapamide (Lozol), metolazone (Mykrox Zaroxolyn, Mykrox), and many others.
