Fish oil is one of the most commonly-taken supplements on the U.S. market, according to a February 2010 survey on ConsumerLab.com. The supplement is sold without a prescription and available over-the-counter at most grocery and drugstores. Benefits of the supplement include decreased triglyceride levels, blood pressure and risk of heart disease, reports MedlinePlus. Still, it is imperative to discuss taking fish oil supplements with a medical professional. Too much of the supplement may cause adverse side effects and complications.
Average Supplement Recommendations
Most medical guidelines including the American Heart Association, or AHA, recommend taking 3 g or less of fish oil daily. Taking more may cause side effects. The AHA suggests taking 1 g of fish oil daily if you are diagnosed with coronary heart disease, or CHD.
Fish Oil Through Diet
When adding fatty fish to your diet, each 3.5 serving contains about 1 g of fish oil, depending on the type of fish. Fish with the highest fish oil per serving include Atlantic salmon or herring and blue fin tuna, reports the Cleveland Clinic. Remember to avoid eating more than 3 g of fish daily. Do not include fish with large amounts of contaminants. Fish with high amounts of mercury include swordfish, tilefish and shark. Remove the skin from fish and outer portion to decrease contaminant levels, advises the AHA.
Large Doses
Take between 2 g and 4 g of fish oil if trying to lower your triglyceride levels. Take more than 3 g of fish oil only with your doctor's approval. Side effects of taking more than 3 g of fish oil include excess bleeding. Your gums may bleed after brushing your teeth; blood may appear in your urine or you can experience multiple difficult-to-stop nosebleeds. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports a hemorrhagic stroke may occur if taking large amounts of fish oil. This emergency condition results from the rupture of an artery or vein in your brain, leading to uncontrolled bleeding.
Medication Interactions
Taking fish oil and some medications together may cause side effects and interactions. Take caution when taking fish oil supplements with anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin, heparin or even over-the-counter aspirin. Fish oil also causes blood to stop clotting quickly; taking both medications and the supplement may result in excess bleeding. If you are taking antihypertensive medications, take caution when adding fish oil supplements into the mix. Fish oil also decreases blood pressure, perhaps to unhealthy levels. Do not take fish oil if you suffer from immune disorders, have a heart defibrillator in place or suffer from seafood allergies. Even small amounts may lead to medical complications.
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