Vital Heart & Vein’s Dr. Patrick Kee, a preventive cardiologist, was recently featured in Parade in an article on fish oil and blood pressure medication. Fish oil is a popular heart-health supplement, but cardiologists say it’s worth a conversation with your doctor if you take medication for high blood pressure.
The article explains several concerns. Fish oil can have a mild blood-thinning effect, and it can lower blood pressure slightly. Stacked on top of medication that already does the same job, that may occasionally lead to to faintness, light-headedness, or fainting. Taking high doses without telling your doctor adds to the risk.
Dr. Kee added a point many people don’t think about: oxidation. Omega-3 fats break down when exposed to light, heat, and air, which can make fish oil go rancid. He noted that reviews of over-the-counter supplements have found a considerable portion that don’t meet voluntary freshness guidelines, and rancid oil can undermine the benefits people are paying for. Prescription omega-3 products are made under stricter controls and packaging to limit oxidation.
The practical takeaways from the article:
- For most people, fish oil with blood pressure medication is considered safe. The blood pressure effect is usually modest, but the caution applies most to people who already have low blood pressure or take multiple medications.
- Always talk with your doctor before adding any supplement. Tell them at once about side effects such as dizziness, light-headedness, or unusual bruising.
- Dr. Kee noted that if your diet is balanced, you may not need a fish oil supplement at all. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend at least eight ounces of a variety of seafood per week.
This post is for general education and isn’t medical advice. Don’t stop or change any medication without talking to your doctor.
Read the full article on Parade →
Questions about your medications or supplements? Schedule an appointment with a Vital Heart & Vein cardiologist.
