Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA, fish oil)
Omega-3 fatty acids is a fish oil found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Maxepa. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
Also called: fish oil, epa, dha, omega 3
What it is used for
Taken for heart health; high doses lower raised triglycerides.
How it works
EPA and DHA fats from fish oil; prescription doses lower high triglycerides. Benefits for heart disease prevention in healthy people are modest.
How to take it
Usually 1 to 4 g a day with meals; prescription doses for triglycerides.
Common side effects
- Fishy burps
- Indigestion
- Loose stools
Get medical help straight away if
- Unusual bleeding
- Palpitations (atrial fibrillation risk with high doses)
Be careful
Fishy burps are common; high doses can add to bleeding risk with blood thinners.
Other medicines and interactions
High doses may add to bleeding risk with blood thinners.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Fish oil (not liver oil) is considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding; choose a mercury-tested product.
Brands of Omega-3 fatty acids (1)
Common questions
What is Omega-3 fatty acids used for?
Taken for heart health; high doses lower raised triglycerides.
How does Omega-3 fatty acids work?
EPA and DHA fats from fish oil; prescription doses lower high triglycerides. Benefits for heart disease prevention in healthy people are modest.
How should I take Omega-3 fatty acids?
Usually 1 to 4 g a day with meals; prescription doses for triglycerides.
What are the side effects of Omega-3 fatty acids?
Common: Fishy burps, indigestion, loose stools. Get help straight away for: Unusual bleeding, palpitations (atrial fibrillation risk with high doses).
Does Omega-3 fatty acids interact with other medicines?
High doses may add to bleeding risk with blood thinners.
Is Omega-3 fatty acids safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Fish oil (not liver oil) is considered acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding; choose a mercury-tested product.
Does Omega-3 fatty acids 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 Omega-3 fatty acids?
Maxepa.
Sources and further reading
- Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA, fish oil): NIH Office of Dietary Supplements · NHS · MedlinePlus
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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