krill oil

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

krill oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids essential for overall health. EPA and DHA support cardiovascular health and brain function and reduce inflammation. They are particularly beneficial for maintaining healthy heart function, promoting cognitive function, and supporting joint health. 

Antioxi dant Properties: krill oil contains astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant that gives it a reddish color.  As an antioxidant, astaxanthin supports overall cellular health and protects against oxidative stress. 

Cardiovascular Support: The omega-3 fatty acids found in krill oil have been associated with numerous cardiovascular benefits. They help reduce triglyceride levels, promote healthy cholesterol levels, and support optimal blood pressure. These effects can contribute to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. 

Brain Health: DHA, one of the primary omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil, is a critical component of brain tissue. It supports cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health.  

Joint Health: krill oil’s anti-inflammatory properties, primarily attributed to its omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin content, may benefit individuals with joint conditions such as arthritis. These compounds can help reduce inflammation, alleviate joint pain, and improve joint mobility. 

Skin Health: The antioxidant properties of krill oil, particularly astaxanthin, may contribute to improved skin health. Astaxanthin has been shown to protect against UV-induced damage, reduce the signs of aging, and enhance skin elasticity.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Adverse Effects 

Not available 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

None 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

• Bleeding disorders 
• Diabetes and hypoglycemia 
• Interaction with other medications 
• Seafood Allergies 
• Pregnancy 
• Breastfeeding 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

Pregnancy Category: N 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

Not available. 

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: No data is available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: EPA and DHA exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by modulating various inflammatory pathways, including reducing the production of pro-inflammatory substances like cytokines and prostaglandins. This can help alleviate inflammation associated with cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and neurodegenerative disorders. 
• Cardiovascular Effects: EPA and DHA are crucial in cardiovascular health. They help lower triglyceride levels, reduce blood pressure, improve blood vessel function, and reduce the risk of blood clot formation. These effects contribute to preventing cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. 
• Neuroprotective Effects: DHA, in particular, is a major structural component of brain tissue and plays a vital role in brain health and function. It supports neuronal membrane integrity, synaptic function, and neuroplasticity. Omega-3 fatty acids improve cognitive function, reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases, and better mental health outcomes. 
• Immunomodulatory Effects: Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to modulate the immune response by influencing immune cell function and cytokine production. They can promote a balanced immune response, reduce excessive inflammation, and enhance immune system regulation. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

• Cellular Membrane Structure and Fluidity: EPA and DHA are incorporated into cell membranes, influencing their structure and fluidity. This can affect membrane permeability, receptor function, and cellular signaling processes. 
• Prostaglandin and Leukotriene Production: EPA and DHA compete with omega-6 fatty acids to synthesize eicosanoids, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. They regulate inflammatory processes by shifting the balance towards producing less inflammatory eicosanoids. 
• Gene Expression: EPA and DHA can influence the activity of transcription factors and impact the production of inflammatory cytokines and other molecules. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

None 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

The typical daily krill oil dosage ranges from 500 to 1,000 milligrams (mg), although dosages can vary depending on the concentration of omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin in the specific product. Higher dosages may be recommended for individuals with specific health conditions or under the guidance of a healthcare professional. 

krill oil can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with a meal that contains some fat can enhance the absorption of omega-3 fatty acids. This is because the fats in the meal help facilitate the absorption of lipid-based krill oil. 

krill oil is generally a long-term dietary supplement rather than a short-term treatment. Consistency in taking krill oil over an extended period is often recommended to achieve and maintain its potential health benefits. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: krill oil 

Pronounced: k-r-ih-l oyl  

Why do we use krill oil?  

The uses of krill oil for various conditions are described below: 

• Cardiovascular Health: krill oil’s omega-3 fatty acids can help promote heart health by reducing triglyceride levels, improving cholesterol profiles, and supporting healthy blood pressure. 
• Brain Function and Cognitive Health: The omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil, particularly DHA, are essential for brain development and function. They may support cognitive function, memory and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline. 
• Joint Health: krill oil’s anti-inflammatory properties, attributed to omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin, can help reduce joint pain and stiffness and improve mobility in individuals with arthritis. 
• Skin Health: The antioxidant properties of astaxanthin in krill oil may improve skin health by protecting against UV-induced damage, reducing signs of aging, and promoting skin elasticity. 
• Eye Health: The omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil, particularly DHA, play a vital role in maintaining eye health and may help prevent age-related macular degeneration and support overall eye function. 
• Overall Wellness: krill oil is often used as a dietary supplement to support overall well-being, provide essential nutrients, and promote a balanced diet.