Both fish oil and warfarin are anticoagulants, decreasing the formation of blood clots. Because the prescription medication and the supplement have the same effect, people considering combining fish oil and warfarin should take extreme caution. Warfarin is commonly prescribed under the brand name Coumadin. Fish oil does not require a prescription and is the leading supplement taken by Americans today, according to ConsumerLab.com's February 2010 study. Do not combine warfarin and fish oil capsules unless your medical health care professional has given specific approval.
Uses
Warfarin is often prescribed to people to decrease blood clots leading to heart attack or stroke. People who suffer from deep vein thrombosis, or blood clots in the veins and arteries, may also take the medication. Fish oil contains high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, a natural blood thinner. Besides decreasing blood clot formation, fish oil has other health advantages. The supplement naturally decreases a fatty substance in the blood known as triglycerides. High triglycerides are linked to heart disease, diabetes and high cholesterol. The supplement can also reduce atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, and plaque buildup. Some medical professionals may recommended taking both warfarin and fish oil, but you should only do so under the direct care and approval of a doctor.
Risks
When combining warfarin and fish oil, you are at higher risk of excess bleeding. Taking more than 3 g of fish oil may be unsafe, according to MedlinePlus. Taking even smaller amounts in combination with warfarin may result in bleeding complications. You may notice blood in your urine and stools, bleeding gums when you brush your teeth, or sudden nosebleeds. Bruises may appear quickly on your skin. Women can experience unusually heavy menstrual periods. These signs of excess bleeding are indicators of a possible medical complication. Seek immediate medical attention.
Tests
According to Drugs.com, if you take both warfarin and fish oil, your doctor may prescribe blood testing on a regular basis. Your blood coagulation time, known as Prothrombin Time and International Normalized Ratio or PT/INR, is tested along with the effectiveness of warfarin and fish oil. Most people taking warfarin must undergo this test on a regular basis. Patients who add fish oil into the mix should receive testing when starting, stopping or changing the dose of fish oil, advises Drugs.com.
Additional Tips
Fish oil and warfarin are not the only anticoagulant medications and supplements that may interact. Other prescription drugs that cause your blood to thin are heparin, enoxaparin and dipyridamole. Herbs and supplements with blood thinning effects include gingko, willow, chamomile, passion flower and nettle. Always speak to a medical professional before taking any type of supplement when you have been prescribed warfarin or other anticoagulant drugs.
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