Generic
Omega-3 fatty acids
20 brands available in the market
At a glance
Omega-3 fatty acids is a lipid-regulating supplement used for dyslipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia and myocardial infarction prevention. It contains EPA and DHA which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet effects.
Description
Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) are long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids which compete with arachidonic acid for inclusion in cyclo-oxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways. Their actions include hypolipidaemic action (reduction in plasma triglycerides), anti-inflammatory action (effects on leukotriene synthesis), and antiplatelet effect (effects on prostanoid synthesis) which promote vasodilation, reduction in platelet aggregation, increased bleeding time and decreased platelet counts.
Indications
- Dyslipidemia
- Hypertriglyceridemia
- Prophylaxis of myocardial infarction
Therapeutic class
Other Lipid Regulating Drugs
Pharmacological class
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Pharmacology
EPA and DHA compete with arachidonic acid in cyclo-oxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways, producing hypolipidemic, anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet effects.
Mechanism of action
Improves heart health by reducing triglycerides and inflammation.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Hypertriglyceridemia: 4 g once daily OR 2 g twice daily
- Myocardial infarction prophylaxis: 1 g daily
Administration
- Take with food
- Swallow capsule whole
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Side Effects (1-10%):
- Eructation (4.9%)
- Infection (4.4%)
- Flu-like syndrome (3.5%)
- Dyspepsia (3.1%)
- Taste perversion (2.7%)
- Back pain (2.2%)
- Pain (1.8%)
- Rash (1.8%)
- Angina pectoris (1.3%)
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in hemorrhagic disorders or patients receiving anticoagulants/antithrombotic drugs
- Monitor hepatic function in liver disease
- Caution in aspirin-sensitive asthma patients
- Caution during pregnancy and lactation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
Drug interactions
- Monitor prothrombin time with warfarin
Food interactions
Take with food for better absorption.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Safety not established; consult doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Unknown if excreted in human milk; use with caution.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children under 18 years.
Geriatric use
Elderly may require dose adjustment.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; monitor hepatic function especially with high doses.
Overdose effects
Overdose may increase bleeding risk; symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Omega-3 Fatty Acids