Home Drug Guide Fish Oil

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Fish Oil

Brand Names Lovaza, Vascepa, Omega-3 fatty acids

Classification

Therapeutic: Dietary supplement, Cardiovascular disease adjunct

Pharmacological: Omega-3 fatty acids

FDA Approved Indications

Elevated triglycerides (fish oil-specific products)
Prevention of cardiovascular events (Vascepa)

Mechanism of Action

Reduces hepatic synthesis of triglycerides and modifies lipid metabolism, leading to decreased triglyceride levels.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically 2-4 grams/day in divided doses

Pediatric: Consult specific product guidelines and pediatric recommendations

Geriatric: Adjust based on overall health and kidney function

Renal Impairment: Use with caution, dose adjustments may be necessary

Hepatic Impairment: Consult healthcare provider for specific guidance

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, incorporated into cell membranes

Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues

Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism; fatty acids incorporated into lipid pools

Excretion: Metabolized or excreted via the respiratory and urinary routes

Half Life: Approximately 2-3 days for incorporated fatty acids

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to fish or shellfish

Precautions

Bleeding risk, especially in patients on anticoagulants; monitor INR and bleeding times

Adverse Reactions - Common

Gastrointestinal upset (Frequent)
Fish burps/brx (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Bleeding complications (Rare)
Allergic reactions (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Anticoagulants (warfarin, dabigatran)

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor triglyceride levels, bleeding signs, and allergic reactions

Diagnoses:

Risk for bleeding
Impaired gastrointestinal comfort

Implementation: Administer with meals to reduce GI discomfort

Evaluation: Assess lipid panel and bleeding parameters regularly

Patient/Family Teaching

Take as prescribed, preferably with meals
Report unusual bleeding or allergic reactions
Store in a cool, dry place

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

None

Genetic Factors: None specific

Lab Test Interference: May slightly affect bleeding time tests

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Bleeding, gastrointestinal discomfort

Treatment: Supportive care; discontinue medication; manage bleeding risk appropriately

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture

Stability: Stable until expiration date on packaging