Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids

Certain prescription omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are used in adults, along with diet, to help lower very high triglyceride levels in the blood.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may also be used by themselves or with other vitamins in adults and children as a dietary supplement.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Your dose may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Avoid medication errors by using exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Over the counter (OTC) products should not be used to replace medication prescribed for you by your doctor. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe to use omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Your treatment may also include diet, exercise, weight control, and blood tests.

Tell your doctor if you have a planned surgery.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Follow all storage instructions provided with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about how to store omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Use only as directed and follow all instructions on the label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers if you are taking other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

You should not use omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids if you are allergic to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, soy, fish or shellfish.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids if you have any health problems or use other medications.

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• diabetes;
• anemia (low red blood cells);
• if you use a blood thinner;
• a heart rhythm disorder;
• a pancreas disorder;
• scheduled medical procedure or surgery;
• underactive thyroid; or
• liver disease.

It is not known if omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Do not give omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids to a child without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have:

• chest pressure, racing or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, feeling short of breath.

Common side effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may include:

• burping;
• changes in your sense of taste; or
• upset stomach.

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.

Usual Adult Dose for Hypertriglyceridemia:

1 gram prescription only products:4 grams orally daily; may be given as a single dose or 2 divided doses.Comments:-Assess triglyceride levels carefully before starting therapy and identify other possible causes (e.g. diabetes, hypothyroidism, medications) and manage appropriately.-Patients should be on a lipid lowering diet prior to using this medication, and continue the diet during use of this medication.-Capsules should be swallowed whole; do not break, crush, chew or dissolve capsules.-In clinical trials, the medication was administered with meals.

Take the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids as soon as possible, but skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Follow your doctor's instructions regarding any restrictions on food, drinks, or activities.

Do not take omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

• blood thinners and medicine used to prevent blood clots.

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.