Many individuals take Omega-3 supplements to improve cardiovascular health.

Omega-3 fatty acid can be found in over-the-counter supplements and in prescription pills, such as Lovaza, though omega-3 fatty acids can also be plant-derived.

Omega-3 fatty acids are nutrients essential to human health and play a role in preventing heart disease. Two components in fish oil are DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). They are the main nutrient building blocks that positively affect cardiovascular health.

Omega-3 fish oil benefits are numerous with respect to heart health. Omega-3s have been shown to improve health by:

• Reducing high blood pressure
• Lowering triglycerides
• Slowing the development of arterial plaque
• Reducing the chance of heart arrhythmia
• Reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke
• Reducing the chance of sudden death by cardiac arrest in those diagnosed with heart disease

Prescription Omega 3 Fatty Acids

While most people purchase Omega-3 pills over the counter, there are prescriptions available as well. Typically, prescription formulations are used for people with very high triglyceride levels and is used in conjunction with a low fat diet.

GlaxoSmithKline manufactures a prescription Omega-3 fatty acid supplement called Lovaza. Lovaza contains Omega-3 fatty acid esters in its formulation. It claims to be more potent and pure than the over the counter supplements, and it is FDA approved (FDA approval does not apply to over the counter supplements).

The strength in one capsule of Lovaza is the equivalent of about seven capsules of a standard over the counter fish oil capsule, though there are some higher-potency OTC brands available. Individuals may be advised to take two Lovaza capsules and may be much more likely to comply with ingesting two pills per day over 14.

Side Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

While side effects can occur from any supplement or medication, generally the side effects are mild and the fish oil benefits outweigh the risks of potential side effects. The side effects associated with Omega-3 fish oil are:

• A fishy taste in the mouth or fishy-smelling breath
• Belching
• Upset Stomach
• Nausea
• Loose stools

Lovaza and Omega-3 Contraindications and Warnings

Individuals are not advised to take more than 3 grams of fish oil per day, as there is an increased risk of bleeding associated with using high levels of Omega-3s.

Additionally, individuals with the following conditions may not be prime candidates for Omega-3 use:

• People with bleeding disorders
• People who take blood thinners or anticoagulant drugs

Complications of Lovaza and Omega-3 Use

Some individuals have reported severe bleeding side effects with use of Lovaza and Omega-3 supplements, including reports of subdural hematoma.

Subdural hematoma occurs when there is a head injury, even a minor one, and the blood collects in the tissues that surround the outside of the brain. This condition can be life-threatening and may require surgery to drain the excess blood.

Initial symptoms of a subdural hematoma include:

• Impaired thinking
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dilated pupils
• Drowsiness
• Problems with speech
• Confusion
• Weakness in limbs on one side of the body

More severe signs of subdural hematoma with an advanced condition include:

• Lethargy
• Seizures
• Unconsciousness

Treatment will likely include surgery for more advanced presentation of subdural hematoma. If not treated quickly, it can be life threatening.

Most adults recover within six months, but some have complications making the prognosis less favorable. Seizures are a common long-term complication with subdural hematoma and will likely need to be controlled with medication for life.

Omega-3 and Lovaza Lawsuit Information

Lawyers are currently investigating cases of subdural hematoma following Lovaza and Omega-3 fatty acid use. If you or a loved one has experienced a subdural hematoma following use of Lovaza, you may qualify for legal compensation. Our experienced attorneys offer free no-risk consultations to assist in educating you about your legal options.

Do YOU have a legal claim? Fill out the form on this page now for a free, immediate, and confidential case evaluation. The attorneys who work with Top Class Actions will contact you if you qualify to let you know if an individual Lovaza lawsuit or Lovaza class action lawsuit is best for you. [In general, Lovaza lawsuits are filed individually by each plaintiff and are not class actions.] Hurry — statutes of limitations may apply.

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