Omega-3

What is this medication for?

There are 3 types of omega-3s: eicosapentaneoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). EPA and DHA are mainly found in seafood such as algae, oily fish, and shellfish. ALA is mainly found in plants, such as walnuts and flaxseed.  

Omega-3s supplements may come in the form of soft gel capsules, chewable gummies, chewable capsules or syrups. There are products made for adults, and others made for children. These supplements may be taken for the heart, joints, skin, brain, pregnancy, and eye health. They also lower triglycerides, a type of “bad cholesterol”. Some omega-3 supplements may also contain other ingredients, including vitamin D, Vitamin E, omega-6 and others.  

How should I take or use this medication?

• Take as directed by your healthcare professional.
• This medication should be taken after meals.
• For soft gel capsules, swallow whole. Do not chew, crush or break the capsules.
• If this medication has been prescribed by your doctor to be taken regularly, do not stop taking the medication without checking with your healthcare professional 

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it is not close to the next dose. Otherwise, you should skip the dose and take the next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses together to make up for the missed dose.  

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications, and herbal remedies.
• You are allergic to seafood or shellfish.  
• You are allergic to certain nuts or seeds.  
• You are taking blood-thinners (e.g. aspirin, warfarin), which may increase the risk of bleeding when taken together with omega-3s.
• You have a history of irregular heartbeat such as arrhythmias or atrial fibrillation.

If you have any questions about this medication, please discuss with your healthcare professional. 

What are some common side effects of this medication? ​

Omega-3 supplements may cause some common side effects, although most are generally mild. Some of these side effects include:

• Nausea
• Burping, bloatedness and gas  
• Stomach cramps
• Fishy aftertaste  

Many of the above side effects may be reduced by taking them with or after meals.  

As for the fishy aftertaste, "odorless” versions of omega-3 fish oils are also available. 

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately? 

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

You can also find out about drug allergies by watching these videos:

They are available in English, 中文, Melayu and தமிழ்: Drug Allergies 

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 

How do I throw away this medication safely? ​

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.