Although omega-3 fatty acids can help lower cholesterol and high blood pressure, they can cause serious side effects when combined with medications such as coumadin. If you are taking these supplements, you should let your doctor know in case you need to have your medications adjusted.
Omega-3 Supplements
Fish oil contains the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid; flaxseed oil has alpha-linoleic acid. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements are used to lower the risk of developing heart disease, as they can lower your triglyceride levels and improve your cholesterol, the University of Maryland Medical Center states. Omega 3 may also be used to treat asthma, allergies and other disorders relating to inflammation.
Coumadin
Coumadin is a blood-thinning medication used for people who have a history of blood clots or who are at risk of developing blood clots, MedLinePlus explains. Coumadin works by interfering with vitamin K, which is needed for the series of chemical signals that causes blood clots to form. This medication is generally safe but it can interact with a variety of other drugs and herbal supplements that can affect its metabolism, meaning its absorption in the body.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Coumadin
Combining omega-3 fatty acids with blood thinners such as coumadin prevents platelets from sticking together, which is one of the early steps in blood clotting. Omega-3 fatty acids can also cause clots to be broken down more quickly and may reduce the levels of a protein known as von Willebrand factor that is needed for blood clotting to occur. Thus, taking omega-3 fatty acids and coumadin can impair blood clotting, resulting in easy bleeding or bruising.
Considerations
In some cases you may be able to take omega-3 fatty acids along with blood thinners, but you will need to have your blood's ability to clot carefully monitored. There are many different blood tests that can be used to ensure your clotting ability is not too impaired.
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