Can You Take Omega-3 with Blood Thinners?
Quick Answer
You can, but run it by your doctor first. Fish oil does have mild blood-thinning effects that stack with your meds. At normal doses (under 3g EPA+DHA), the added risk is pretty small. But if you're on warfarin, your INR needs watching. Don't freelance this one.
Key Points
- Yes, both thin blood. The combo is manageable.
- Studies show modest real-world risk at normal doses
- Stay under 3g EPA+DHA daily to be safe
- Warfarin users: get your INR monitored
- Tell your doctor. Every time. Non-negotiable.
Detailed Answer
Here's the deal: omega-3s naturally thin your blood a bit. That's actually one reason they're good for your heart. But when you're already on blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, the newer ones), there's theoretical concern about stacking effects.
The good news: real-world data is reassuring. A 2018 meta-analysis found no significant increase in major bleeding events with fish oil, even in people on anticoagulants. At typical doses (1-3g EPA+DHA), the added risk is modest.
The "but": If you're on warfarin, fish oil can nudge your INR, so your doc needs to monitor it. High doses (3g+) do show more pronounced blood-thinning. And you should always tell your prescriber about supplements.
Bottom line: Not a hard "no," but definitely a "let your doctor know."
Important Considerations
- Always, always tell your doctor about fish oil if you're on blood thinners
- Stop fish oil 1-2 weeks before any surgery
- New bruising or bleeding? Call your doc.
Evidence Quality
Some quality studies, more research helpful
Key Sources:
- reviewFish Oil and Anticoagulant Therapy: Safety Meta-Analysis (2018)
- reviewOmega-3 Fatty Acids and Bleeding Risk: Systematic Review
- studyREDUCE-IT Trial: Omega-3 Safety in Cardiovascular Patients
Related Questions
Yes. Standard advice is 1-2 weeks before. Even mild blood-thinning matters when someone's cutting you open. Your surgeon will give specific instructions.
You Might Also Ask
Try It In Your Stack
Learn more →
About this information: Our recommendations draw from peer-reviewed clinical trials, systematic reviews, and the same medical databases your doctor uses. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Get Science-Backed Supplement Tips
Weekly insights from 47,000+ clinical trials
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. We respect your inbox.
Have More Questions?
Check your full supplement stack for interactions and personalized recommendations.
Analyze Your Stack