Skip to main navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to footer
For
Medicare
For
Providers
For
Brokers
For
Employers
Español
For Individuals & Families:
For Individuals & Families
Medical
Dental
Other Supplemental
Explore coverage through work
How to Buy Health Insurance
Types of Dental Insurance
Open Enrollment vs. Special Enrollment
See all topics
Shop for Medicare plans
Member Guide
Find a Doctor
Log in to myCigna
Home
Knowledge Center
Wellness Library
omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids
omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids
What is the most important information I should know about omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
What is the most important information I should know about omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.
What is omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
What is omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are used together with diet and exercise to help lower triglyceride levels in the blood.
It is not known if omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids will prevent a heart attack or stroke. Talk to your doctor about your risk factors.
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids or soybeans.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:
- an allergy to fish or shellfish;
- diabetes;
- liver disease;
- a heart rhythm disorder;
- a pancreas disorder; or
- underactive thyroid.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I take omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
How should I take omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Swallow the capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.
You may need frequent blood tests.
You may need to follow a special diet. Follow all instructions of your doctor or dietitian. Learn about the foods you should eat or avoid.
Tell your doctor if you have a planned surgery.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.
What happens if I miss a dose?
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while taking omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
What should I avoid while taking omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
Avoid eating foods high in fat or cholesterol, or omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids will not be as effective.
Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase triglycerides and may make your condition worse.
What are the possible side effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
What are the possible side effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- chest pain; or
- uneven heartbeats.
Common side effects may include:
- loss of appetite;
- diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach, belching;
- back pain; or
- dry mouth, altered sense of taste.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
What other drugs will affect omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?
Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:
- a blood thinner --warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.
Where can I get more information?
Where can I get more information?
Your pharmacist can provide more information about omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
<cipublic-spinner variant="large"><span>Loading…</span></cipublic-spinner>
