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Warnings for Omega-3 Purified Fish Oil

Omega-3 fish oils are typically taken as a dietary supplement in capsule form and contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in some types of fish. These fatty acids aren't made by your body and work by lowering your body's creation of triglycerides, which in high levels can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Before you take omega-3 fish oils, you should be aware of warnings related to this supplement.

  1. Drug Interactions

    • Other drugs may affect or be affected by omega-3 fish oils, so tell your health care provider if you are taking fish oil supplements. Never take a new medication without approval from your doctor.

    Allergies

    • Those with an allergy to fish or soybeans should not take omega-3 fish oil supplements. Stop use and seek medical attention if you think you've taken too much or experience a skin rash, trouble breathing or swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, as this indicates an allergic reaction.

    Digestion

    • Taking omega-3 fish oil capsules may result in a fishy aftertaste and bad breath, and may also cause incomplete digestion of food, heartburn, abdominal pain and gas. Fish oils can also cause oily stool and diarrhea, and may lower your body's absorption of oil-soluble vitamins. To reduce these effects, omega-3 fish oil should be taken with food.

    Bleeding

    • Omega-3 fatty acids may cause bleeding in some individuals. If you are taking blood thinning drugs or anticoagulants, such as Coumadin and Clopidogrel, you should not take omega-3 fish oil before consulting your physician. Individuals with a pre-existing bleeding disorder taking more than 3 g of omega-3 fatty acids per day are at risk for a hemorrhagic stroke, according to Natural Standard. While the risk for healthy individuals is lower, you should consult your physician before increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids beyond the recommended dosage.

    Blood Sugar Levels

    • Omega-3 fish oil supplements are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and may increase blood sugar levels, so those with type-2 diabetes should consult their health care provider before taking omega-3 fish oils.

    Toxins

    • Omega-3 fish oils may contain heavy metals like mercury, dioxins and toxins of the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family, or group of man-made organic chemicals, which can cause serious health issues. Taking lower-quality fish oil increases potential risks of exposure to contaminants. Most manufacturers of fish oil supplements remove heavy metal and pollutants, but some do not. Read labels when purchasing, and only buy fish oil supplements that have been molecularly distilled (the process used to remove contaminants). According to New-Omega-3.com, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has restricted use of omega-3 fish oils by pregnant and nursing women and children because of this possible contamination. Women who are pregnant, nursing or who plan to become pregnant should consult their physician before taking fish oil supplements. Omega-3 fish oil is also not recommended for children under the age of 18 years.

    Rare Side Effects

    • According to Natural Standard, skin issues may arise as a result of taking omega-3 fish oils. Skin rashes and the sensation of ants crawling on the skin are two such side effects, although they are rare. In addition, some individuals report issues with mania and restlessness, although these, too, are rare.

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