Consumer Information

Omacor

Generic name: Omega-3-acid ethyl esters
Brand names: Omacor

Why is Omacor prescribed?

Your doctor may prescribe Omacor, together with a modified diet, if you have very high blood levels of triglycerides. High triglyceride levels can put you at a greater risk for developing heart disease. Omacor reduces the amount of triglycerides your liver produces.

Omacor is to be used only if other measures fail to achieve an adequate change in your triglyceride levels. Your doctor will most likely recommend dietary changes, increased exercise, and other lifestyle changes. Also, treating an underlying problem like diabetes or an underactive thyroid may correct your triglyceride levels, as well. In some cases, discontinuing certain medications may improve your triglyceride levels. These include certain diuretics, heart medications known as beta-blockers, and estrogen.

Most important fact about Omacor

Omacor is to be used together with a healthy diet; it is not a substitute for the dietary changes your doctor may already have recommended.

How should you take Omacor?

Take Omacor with meals. Your doctor may prescribe four 1 gram capsules to be taken once a day or two 1 gram capsules twice a day.

If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Omacor.

Side effects may include:
Belching, flu-like symptoms, infection, upset stomach

Why should Omacor not be prescribed?

Do not take Omacor if you have had an allergic reaction to any of its ingredients.

Special warnings about Omacor

Omacor caused changes in liver activity in some patients.

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to fish. You should use Omacor with caution.

Omacor increased the blood levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in some patients.

Your doctor may monitor your blood levels of cholesterol, triglyceride, and liver enzymes while you are taking Omacor.

You must maintain the healthy diet and lifestyle your doctor recommended while you are taking Omacor.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Omacor

Omacor is an omega-3-acid. Some studies with omega-3-acids have found that they slow clot formation and increase bleeding. Notify your doctor if you take any other anticoagulants (medicines that slow clotting, such as aspirin or warfarin).

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Omacor during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Omacor appears in human breast milk. If Omacor is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop nursing until your treatment is finished.