Cod liver oil is a medicinal supplement rich in vitamins A and D that is extracted from the livers of the codfish. Treatment with cod liver oil may promote heart health by reducing elevated cholesterol and blood pressure levels. The anti-inflammatory properties of cod liver oil may also alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis; however, further research is needed to validate these purported medicinal benefits of cod liver oil. In addition, treatment with cod liver oil isn't appropriate for everyone. Consult your physician if you have questions regarding whether you can take cod liver oil.
Aspirin Sensitivity
Avoid taking cod liver oil if you are sensitive to aspirin. Cod liver oil may induce severe breathing difficulties, such as shortness of breath or wheezing, in people sensitive to this medication. Seek prompt care from your doctor if these side effects arise after you take a dose of cod liver oil.
Fish Allergy
If you are allergic to fish, use caution when taking any type of fish oil supplement, including cod liver oil. People allergic to fish may experience a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction upon exposure to cod liver oil. Allergic reaction symptoms require emergency medical intervention and include shortness of breath, facial swelling, hives, dizziness, weakness, difficulty swallowing and loss of consciousness.
Pregnancy or Lactation
Women who are pregnant or lactating should avoid using cod liver oil unless otherwise instructed by a doctor. A single 1-tsp. dose of cod liver oil contains 4500 IU, or international units, of vitamin A. While pregnant, a woman only needs approximately half of that dose of vitamin A, or 2565 IU daily, the Office of Dietary Supplements reports. Women who consume too much vitamin A while pregnant or breastfeeding may be at risk of developing high blood levels of this nutrient -- a condition called hypervitaminosis A. In excess, vitamin A may cause severe birth defects in a developing fetus or baby.
Specific Medication Use
Cod liver oil should not be combined with certain medications. Due to an increased risk of developing bleeding complications, do not take cod liver oil in conjunction with blood-thinners such as naproxen, ibuprofen, warfarin or heparin. In addition, do not use cod liver oil if you are taking a medication for high blood pressure, such as hydrochlorothiazide or diltiazem. Combining these treatments may cause a severe drop in your blood pressure, which may lead to dizziness, headache, blurred vision or fainting.
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