fish oil triglycerides

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Mechanism of Action: 

• Anti-inflammatory Effects: EPA and DHA can reduce the production of inflammatory molecules in the body, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. They compete with omega-6 pro-inflammatory fatty acids for the same enzymes producing these molecules. 
• Modulation of Cell Membrane Fluidity: EPA and DHA can alter the fluidity and flexibility of cell membranes, which affects the function of various cells and signaling pathways. 
• Gene Expression Regulation: Omega-3 fatty acids can influence the expression of specific genes involved in inflammation, lipid metabolism, and cell growth. 
• Modulation of Immune Function: EPA and DHA can affect immune cell function, including reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhancing the activity of anti-inflammatory molecules. 
• Cardiovascular Effects: Omega-3 fatty acids can lower blood triglyceride levels, reduce blood clotting, improve endothelial function, and help maintain healthy blood pressure, collectively supporting cardiovascular health. 

Spectrum of Activity: 

• Cardiovascular Health: Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart disease and stroke. They can lower triglyceride levels, decrease the formation of blood clots, and improve overall heart health. 
• Brain Function and Mental Health: DHA is an essential component of brain tissue for proper brain development and function. Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to improved cognitive function, memory, and mood regulation. They may also protect against age-related cognitive decline and certain mental health disorders. 
• Inflammation and Autoimmune Conditions: The anti-inflammatory properties of EPA and DHA make fish oil triglycerides beneficial for conditions characterized by chronic inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriasis. 
• Eye Health: DHA is highly concentrated in the eye’s retina and is essential for visual development and maintenance. Omega-3 fatty acids may help protect against age-related macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome. 
• Pregnancy and Early Development: Adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, during pregnancy and early childhood is important for optimal brain and visual development in the fetus and infant. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency defined 

>10% 

Agitation (35%) 

Apnea (20%) 

Erythema (12%) 

Vomiting (46%) 

Bradycardia (35%) 

Viral infection (16%)  

1-10% 

Abscess (7%) 

Hypertonia (6%) 

Incision site erythema (6%) 

Rash (8%) 

Neutropenia (7%) 

Post-marketing reports 

Portal hypertension 

Black Box Warning

Black box warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindications/caution: 

Contraindications: 

• Allergy or Sensitivity: Individuals allergic to fish or shellfish should avoid fish oil triglycerides as they are derived from these sources.  
• Bleeding Disorders: Omega-3 fatty acids can have anticoagulant (blood-thinning) effects, which may increase the risk of bleeding.  
• Surgery: fish oil triglycerides should be discontinued a few weeks before surgery or dental procedures, as they can interfere with blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. 
• Diabetes and Blood Sugar Control: Omega-3 fatty acids can affect blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity.  
• Immune Disorders: fish oil triglycerides can modulate the immune system and individuals with autoimmune diseases. 

Caution: 

• Quality and Purity: It is essential to ensure the quality and purity of fish oil supplements. Fish can accumulate contaminants such as heavy metals (e.g., mercury), PCBs, dioxins, and other environmental pollutants.  
• Dosage and Supplementation: Excessive intake of fish oil triglycerides can increase the risk of bleeding, suppress the immune system, and interfere with other medications.  
• Digestive Issues: Some individuals may experience digestive side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or indigestion when taking fish oil supplements. Taking fish oil with meals or choosing enteric-coated capsules may help reduce these gastrointestinal symptoms. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: Insufficient data available 

Lactation: Excretion of the drug in human breast milk is unknown 

Pregnancy category: 

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: EPA and DHA can reduce the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, such as prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and cytokines.  
• Lipid Modulation: Omega-3 fatty acids can lower triglyceride levels in the blood, reduce the production of very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels.  
• Cardiovascular Effects: Omega-3 fatty acids have several cardiovascular benefits. They can help reduce blood pressure, prevent blood clot formation, improve endothelial function, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart disease and stroke. 
• Brain and Nervous System Effects: DHA is a crucial component of brain tissue and is essential for brain development and function.  
• Immune Modulation: EPA and DHA can modulate immune cell function, such as reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhancing the activity of anti-inflammatory molecules. This immunomodulatory effect contributes to their potential benefits in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacodynamics of fish oil triglycerides are complex and can vary depending on factors such as dosage, formulation, individual characteristics, and underlying health conditions. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

fish oil triglycerides are primarily absorbed in the small intestine. The triglycerides are broken down into fatty acids (such as eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, DHA) by pancreatic lipase and other enzymes. Once absorbed, they enter the lymphatic system before reaching the bloodstream. 

Distribution 

Omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, are distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. They are transported bound to albumin or other carrier proteins. These fatty acids have a high affinity for phospholipids in cell membranes.  

Metabolism 

Omega-3 fatty acids undergo metabolism in the body. They can be metabolized through various pathways: 

• Oxidation: Omega-3 fatty acids can be oxidized by enzymes such as cytochrome P450 enzymes and lipoxygenases, resulting in the formation of various metabolites, including specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) such as resolvins, protectins, and maresins. 
• Beta-Oxidation: The fatty acids can also undergo beta-oxidation in the liver, like other dietary fats, to provide energy. 
• Enzymatic Modification: Omega-3 fatty acids can be enzymatically modified to form other bioactive molecules, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, although in general, omega-3 fatty acids lead to the formation of less inflammatory mediators compared to omega-6 fatty acids. 

Elimination and Excretion 

The elimination of omega-3 fatty acids occurs primarily through metabolism and excretion. The metabolites are further metabolized and may be eliminated via the kidneys as water-soluble compounds or excreted in bile as waste products. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

Intravenous administration 

• Administer either centrally or peripherally through intravenous alone or with parenteral nutrition.  
• When dextrose and amino acids are given intravenously, the choice of whether to deliver them via the central or peripheral veins is determined by the osmolarity of the final infusate. Solutions with an osmolarity of more than 900 mOsm/L are given through the central vein. Utilize an in-line 1.2-micron filter while administering. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: fish oil triglycerides 

Why do we use fish oil triglycerides? 

fish oil triglycerides, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, have several uses and potential benefits. Here are some common uses of fish oil triglycerides: 

• Cardiovascular Health: Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil triglycerides have been shown to benefit cardiovascular health.  
• Brain Health and Cognitive Function: Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are crucial in brain health and cognitive function. They are essential for brain development in infants and can support cognitive function in children and adults.  
• Eye Health: Adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids is essential for maintaining good eye health and may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and dry eye syndrome. 
• Inflammation and Joint Health: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body.