II. Preparations: Supplements (OTC)
- Supplement sources
- Cod liver oil
- Standard fish body oil
- Omega-3 Fatty Acid concentrate
- Supplement Capsules (1 gram)
- Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA): 180 mg
- Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA): 120 mg
- Liquid
- Variable concentrations per manufacturer
- Food sources for acquiring in diet
III. Preparations: Prescriptions
- Lovaza
- Contents (per 1 gram capsule)
- EPA 465 mg
- DHA 375 mg
- Efficacy (4 gram/day dose)
- Lowers Triglycerides 45%
- Risk of increased LDL Cholesterol
- Contents (per 1 gram capsule)
- Vascepa
- Contents (per 1 gram capsule)
- EPA 1000 mg
- Efficacy (4 gram/day dose)
- Lowers Triglycerides 27%
- Contents (per 1 gram capsule)
- References
- (2013) Presc Lett 20(1):1-2
- Ballantyne (2012) Am J Cardiol 110(7):984-92 [PubMed]
IV. Dosing
- Standard dosing: 1 gram capsule or equivalent liquid daily
- Coronary Artery Disease Prevention
- Does not appear effective (at 1 g dose) for CAD primary prevention in those without CAD
- Higher dose: 2-4 grams per day
- Hypertriglyceridemia
- Currently being researched as to benefits and risks
V. Efficacy
VI. Adverse Effects
- Well tolerated in most patients
- Fish after-taste
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Prolonged Bleeding Time
- Increased LDL Cholesterol
- Mercury Poisoning risk (depending on source of extract)
