Products
Fish oil is available in the form of soft capsules from various suppliers, such as Alpinamed, Biorganic, Burgerstein or Phytomed. Fish oil can also be supplied to the body through regular consumption of fish. At least one to two fish meals per week are recommended.
Structure and properties
Fish oil is a purified, winterized and deodorized fatty oil obtained from various species of fish, for example, sardines, anchovies, mackerel and herring. Salmon is also known for its high content. Fish oil exists as a pale yellow liquid that is practically insoluble in water. The oil contains triglycerides and is rich in the long-chain and polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Vitamin E is often added as an antioxidant. Incidentally, fish do not form the omega-3 fatty acids themselves – they absorb them with their food from microalgae and phytoplankton.
Effects
Fish oil (ATC C10AX06) has lipid-lowering, antiplatelet, antithrombotic, antiarrhythmic, antiatherogenic, cardioprotective, mildly antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory properties. It lowers blood triglyceride and VLDL levels, protects against atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for normal growth and development, cell membranes, vision and the central nervous system. Regular intake of fish or fish oil is therefore recommended by professional societies such as the American Heart Association.
Indications for use
Possible areas of application include (selection):
- As a dietary supplement for the adequate supply of essential omega-3 fatty acids. Also during pregnancy and lactation.
- For the prevention and treatment of disorders of blood lipid levels (hypertriglyceridemia) and cardiovascular diseases.
- For the treatment of inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Dosage
According to the package leaflet. It is recommended to take the capsules immediately before or with food.
Contraindications
Fish oil should not be taken in case of hypersensitivity and severe diseases of the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, disorders of fat digestion and blood clotting. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with anticoagulants and with digoxin.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include digestive disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and belching, an odor and taste of fish, inhibition of platelet aggregation, prolongation of bleeding time, and a slight increase in transaminase. Fish oil capsules with a high product quality do not contain harmful substances such as PCBs or heavy metals such as methylmercury, which can be found in fish.
