Cod liver oil

Fish oil (vitamins A and D, omega-3)
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Cod liver oil is a fish oil (vitamins A and D, omega-3) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Seven Seas Cod Liver Oil. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Provides vitamins A and D and some omega-3 fats.

How it works

Fish liver oil with vitamins A and D and omega-3 fats.

How to take it

Take as directed with food; do not combine with other vitamin A supplements.

Common side effects

  • Fishy burps
  • Nausea
  • Loose stools

Get medical help straight away if

Headache, peeling skin or joint pain (too much vitamin A)

Be careful

Contains vitamin A: do not combine with other vitamin A supplements, especially in pregnancy.

Other medicines and interactions

May add slightly to the effect of blood thinners.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid high-dose cod liver oil in pregnancy because of vitamin A; regular fish oil is preferred.

Brands of Cod liver oil (1)

Seven Seas Cod Liver Oil

Common questions

What is Cod liver oil used for?

Provides vitamins A and D and some omega-3 fats.

How does Cod liver oil work?

Fish liver oil with vitamins A and D and omega-3 fats.

How should I take Cod liver oil?

Take as directed with food; do not combine with other vitamin A supplements.

What are the side effects of Cod liver oil?

Common: Fishy burps, nausea, loose stools. Get help straight away for: Headache, peeling skin or joint pain (too much vitamin A).

Does Cod liver oil interact with other medicines?

May add slightly to the effect of blood thinners.

Is Cod liver oil safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Avoid high-dose cod liver oil in pregnancy because of vitamin A; regular fish oil is preferred.

Does Cod liver oil need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Cod liver oil?

Seven Seas Cod Liver Oil.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.