Many people take fish oil for a variety of benefits, including heart health, decrease in arterial plaque and even rheumatoid arthritis. MedlinePlus states fish oil is likely safe for the the average healthy American, if the supplement is taken in low doses. The recommended dose is 3 g or less. Still, fish oil does react and cause additional side effects when taken with certain medications.
Blood Thinning Medications and Supplements
Fish oil decreases blood-clotting time in some people. Side effects include nose bleeds, bruising of the skin and blood in your urine. A more serious side effect is a stroke, where blood vessels burst, also known as a hemorrhagic stroke. People consuming anticoagulant medications such as aspirin, warfarin and heparin should not take fish oil. The combination of the two can cause low clotting times that may be associated with internal bleeding. Don't forget herbs and other supplements may also decrease clotting time. Such herbs include ginkgo, turmeric, garlic and willow. If you are considering taking fish oil supplements or herbs, always discuss the option with a medical doctor.
Birth Control and Estrogen Replacement
One of the main benefits of taking fish oil supplements is to decrease triglycerides in the blood. High amounts of triglycerides may cause the body to produce excess cholesterol. If you are taking oral birth control pills, the pills may prevent the fish oil from being effective against triglycerides, according to MedlinePlus. The most common birth control pills to have this effect on the body are combinations of ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel, as well as ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone. Brand names include Triphasil and Ortho-Novum 1/35. If you are taking estrogen replacement therapy, fish oil may also effect these medications, suggests Drugs.com.
Blood Pressure Medications
If you are taking medications to lower your blood pressure, taking fish oil supplements may decrease your blood pressure too much. Signs of low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, including feeling lightheaded or dizzy. This may especially occur when moving from a sitting to standing position. Medications that decrease your blood pressure include captopril, enalapril and diltiazem.
Vitamin E
According to MedlinePlus, fish oil may decrease the amount of vitamin E in the body. Though more research is needed, it is thought the fish oil either prevents absorption of the vitamin from food or absorbs it faster than necessary. A small amount of vitamin E is included in the fish oil capsules to prevent spoilage.
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