Coumadin and fish oil both have blood thinning properties. While Coumadin, generic name for the drug warfarin, is a prescription medication specifically used for blood thinning, fish oil is an over the counter supplement used for many different reasons. As with all herbal or vitamin supplements, discuss taking fish oil with a health care provider, as it may alter the performance of prescription medications.
Coumadin
Coumadin is an anticoagulant or blood thinner that works by blocking factors that cause the blood to clot. It is prescribed primarily for the prevention of heart attacks, strokes, and clots in the veins and arteries. There are many interactions with this drug as well as many side effects. Your doctor will monitor your blood levels of this drug to maintain levels within specific parameters, depending on the reason for taking Coumadin.
Fish Oil
Fish oil is a source of the beneficial oils, called omega-3 fatty acids which the body does not make. Two of the most important of these fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. Eating certain fish, such as tuna, salmon and mackerel is a good source of fish oil, or you can take fish oil supplements. Fish oil is taken for several reasons but is most effective for combating high triglycerides and heart disease. According to MedlinePlus, fish oil taken in high doses slows blood clotting.
Interaction of Coumadin and Fish Oil
Due to the effect that fish oil has on blood clotting, if you are on Coumadin, use caution when using a fish oil supplement or eating a lot of fish. The combination of the two may cause you to bleed more readily. A case reported in the January 2004 issue of the "Annals of Pharmacology" substantiated that doubling the dose of fish oil resulted in a change in the international normalized ratio. INR is the blood test used to monitor the effectiveness of Coumadin. For most indications, your INR needs to be between 2 and 3.
Warnings and Tips
Exercise caution if you are either susceptible to bleeding or taking Coumadin when adding fish oil to your diet, advises the Linus Pauling Institute. If you are taking Coumadin, discuss any changes to your diet or the supplements you take with your doctor.
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