One of the most widely prescribed Omega-3 fatty acid supplements,  Lovaza, is under scrutiny as consumers report that the supplement causes blood to collect outside of the brain — medically referred to as subdural hematoma.

Lovaza is prescribed to patients in an effort to lower high triglyceride fat levels and raise “good” cholesterol levels when combined with a healthy diet and exercise program. However, Lovaza users claim that the risk of developing subdural hematoma was not adequately listed as a possible side effect on the Omega-3 prescription.

According to the Lovaza warning label: “Omega-3-acids may prolong bleeding time. Patients taking Lovaza and an anticoagulant or other drug affecting coagulation should be monitored periodically.”

Some patients argue that the current warning from GlaxoSmithKline is not adequate to caution patients of the subdural hematoma risks associated with the Omega-3 supplement.

Lovaza Omega-3 Bleeding Risks

Omega-3s are not naturally produced by the human body, but they are considered an essential fatty acid for human health. Omega-3 can be found in food sources including nut oils, fish, and plants, but some choose to take it in the form of a dietary supplement.

The Omega-3 supplement industry is big business, generating $6 billion in U.S. revenue each year. Lovaza consumers in the U.S. account for $916 million annually.

Despite their popularity, Omega-3s may increase a patient’s risk of bleeding, especially if the patient takes three or more grams per day. Those patients who already have a bleeding disorder may increase their risk even further by taking Lovaza.

What is Lovaza Subdural Hematoma?

Subdural hematoma occurs when blood collects under the skull and outside of the brain, but not in the brain itself. The serious medical condition is usually due to some sort of head injury like a fall, and while it can cause damage, subdural hematoma is not necessarily considered a brain injury.

Patients taking an anticoagulant or who have a bleeding disorder have a greater risk of developing subdural hematoma.

Lovaza subdural hematoma symptoms may include:

• Seizures
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Lethargy or excessive drowsiness
• Confusion
• Change in behavior
• Apathy
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness

Subdural hematoma symptoms can take days or weeks to appear – as age, medications, the size of the bleed and medical conditions all play a factor.

Subdural Hematoma Treatment

Lovaza consumers who suspect they are developing symptoms of subdural hematoma must seek medical attention immediately. If the bleeding outside the brain is minimal, physicians will typically just monitor it.

However, if the collection of blood is substantial, surgery will be required as a way to reduce the amount of pressure on the brain and skull.

Lovaza Lawsuit Investigation

A Lovaza lawsuit investigation is looking into consumer reports that claim the risk of developing subdural hematoma was a side effect that consumers were not fully warned about.

If you suffered from a subdural hematoma after taking Lovaza Omega-3 fatty acid, you may have legal claim.

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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