Fish Oil Side Effects

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Fish oil is obtained from eating fish or by taking supplements. The supplements are taken for the beneficial oils known as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids contained in fish oil. Fish oil is available in over-the-counter supplements, or as a concentrated prescription form called Lovaza, which is used for cardiovascular disease.[1]

Fish oil can cause side effects ranging from burping and a "fishy" taste in the mouth to problems with blood clotting and immune system repression. Fish oil is is most often used to treat conditions related to the heart and blood system. However, the supplement is also taken for a host of other uses, not all of which are backed by major clinical trials.[2]



Fish Oil
Active ingredient Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA)
Brand names Lovaza (prescription only), Natrol, Finest Natural, Nature Made, Nature's Bounty, Walgreens, Schiff, more[1] [3]
Prescription version available? Yes: Lovaza.[1]
Uses Maintain cardiovascular health among other uses
Common side effects Burping, unpleasant taste in the mouth, potential contamination from fish sources.[2]
Who should not take fish oil Those with fish allergies
Disclaimer The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician.
 

Contents

Fish Oil Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with fish oil supplements include increased burping, the taste of fish in the mouth, unpleasant odor in the breath, upset stomach, skin rash, and nosebleeds. In addition, there is the potential of contamination if the fish oil comes from fish who have been exposed to pollutants.

The more severe adverse reactions to fish oil typically only occur among users who take excessive dosages of the supplement. These include issues with blood clotting, lowered immune system function, and increased cholesterol levels.[3]

About Drug Side Effects

Drug Side Effects

Fish Oil Allergic Reactions

It is possible that people who have allergies to fish, including shellfish, might have adverse reactions to fish oil supplements. There has not been adequate research performed to confirm that the oil will cause allergies, but fish oil products are not recommended for those who have experienced any type of reactions to fish in the past.[2]

Fish Oil Precautions and Warnings

Consuming large amounts of fish oil can be harmful to one's health. Overuse of this supplement has been known to cause excessive bleeding, and can make individuals more prone to infection--particularly dangerous for the aged as well as those on suppressive immune therapy drugs.

Fish oil can potentially exacerbate conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression, diabetes, and other illnesses.[2]



Also See: Biotin Coupons, Fish Oil Coupons, Creatine Coupons, Saw Palmetto Coupons, Zantac Coupons, Prevacid Coupons, Nature Made Coupons, Chondroitin Side Effects


References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 http://www.lovaza.com/
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/993.html
  3. 3.0 3.1 http://www.walgreens.com/search/results.jsp?Ntt=fish+oil&x=164&y=112



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