The prescription drug Lovaza helps patients combat high levels of triglycerides – a risk factor for heart disease – and, it contains omega-3 fatty acids in a more purified, concentrated form than what is found in most fish oil supplements.
If your doctor prescribes this medication, be aware of potential side effects that, although mild, may be inconvenient.
Be sure to openly discuss with your doctor any other medications you take, your health history, and ask questions about side effects or precautions associated with taking
Lovaza, WebMD said. Let your doctor know if you're allergic to shellfish or fish; allergic reactions to Lovaza may be rare but could be severe in some cases.
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The medication may interfere with other drugs that increase triglycerides, like beta blockers, estrogens and some diuretics, and with other vitamins or supplements, including flaxseed, fish oils and cod liver oils, WebMD said. More than 80 drugs are known to have moderate interactions with
Lovaza, Drugs.com said.
Common side effects to Lovaza, according to Drugs.com, include:
- upset stomach, belching
- appetite loss
- diarrhea, constipation
- back pain
- dry mouth, altered sense of taste
But other more serious side effects may occur, and Drugs.com said if you experience any of these or side effects listed in the information that comes with your medication, contact your doctor immediately:
- fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms
- chest pain
- uneven heartbeats
Livestrong.com cautioned that taking more than 3 grams per day of omega-3 fatty acids, whether by taking Lovaza or an over-the-counter product, should only be done under a doctor's supervision. "High intakes can lead to excessive bleeding, including internal bleeding, in some patients," the site said. "Large doses of fish oil also are associated with side effects of heartburn, burping, nausea, diarrhea, rash and problems with blood sugar regulation in people with diabetes."
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