What is the most important information I should know about omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use it in larger amounts
or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
This medication is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet,
exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
If you miss a dose, use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for
the next dose, skip the missed dose and wait until your next regularly scheduled dose. Do
not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
There may be other drugs that can affect omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Tell your
doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes
vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a
new medication without telling your doctor.
Stop using this medication and get emergency medical help if you think you have
used too much medicine, or if you have any of these
signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or is especially bothersome.
What is omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are found in oil from certain types of fish,
vegetables, and other plant sources. These fatty acids are not made by the body and must be
consumed in the diet. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids work by lowering the body's
production of triglycerides. High levels of triglycerides can lead to coronary artery disease, heart
disease, and stroke.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are used together with diet and exercise to help
lower triglyceride levels in the blood.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may also be used for other purposes not listed in this
medication guide.
What should I discuss with my health care provider before taking omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to fish or soybeans.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any foods or drugs, or
if you have:
If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use
omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during
treatment.
FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell
your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids pass into breast milk or
if this could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you
are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give this medication to anyone under 18 years old.
How should I take omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in
larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on
your prescription label.
This medication works best if you take it with food.
To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on
a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits
to your doctor.
This medication is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet,
exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not
freeze.
Print
Email
Drug Info Tools
Medicare's drug plans are subsidized by the US federal government and offered through insurers.
