Generic name: omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids [ oh-may-ga-3 pol-ee-un-sat-yoo-ray-ted-fat-ee-as-ids ]
Drug class: Nutraceutical products
Availability: Over the counter
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Fish oil, Dry eye omega benefits, Epanova, Lovaza, Omacor
What is Omera?
Certain prescription Omera are used in adults, together with diet to help lower triglyceride levels in the blood.
Omera may also be used in combination with other vitamins in adults and children as a dietary supplement.
Omera may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Use only as directed and follow all directions on the label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.
How should I use Omera
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.
The recommended daily dose of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids changes with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the Office of Dietary Supplements of the NIH, or the USDA Nutrient Database of recommended daily allowances for more information.
Over the counter (OTC) products should not be used to replace medication prescribed for you by your doctor. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe to use this product.
Take with food.
Swallow the capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.
You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.
Measure liquid medicine with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Your treatment may also include diet, exercise, weight control, and blood tests.
Tell your doctor if you have a planned surgery.
Store tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not freeze.
Before Taking
You should not use Omera if you are allergic to Omera, soy, fish or shellfish.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking Omera if you have any health problems.
Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:
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diabetes;
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bleeding problems, anemia (low red blood cells);
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a heart rhythm disorder;
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a pancreas disorder;
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underactive thyroid; or
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liver disease.
It is not known if Omera will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using Omera.
Do not give any herbal or health supplement to a child without medical advice.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Omera?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Avoid using Omera together with other herbal/health supplements that can also affect blood-clotting. This includes angelica (dong quai), capsicum, clove, dandelion, danshen, evening primrose, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, horse chestnut, Panax ginseng, poplar, red clover, saw palmetto, turmeric, and willow.
Omera side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Omera may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:
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chest pain; or
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uneven heartbeats.
Common side effects of Omera may include:
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burping, changes in your sense of taste;
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loss of appetite;
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diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach;
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back pain; or
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dry mouth.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Omera Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Omera?
Do not take Omera without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:
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medicine used to prevent blood clots--alteplase, clopidogrel, dipyridamole, ticlopidine, and others; or
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a blood thinner--warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven, apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Omera, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.