Omacor (Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Esters 90)

Omacor is a prescription omega‑3 fatty acid that lowers elevated lipid levels through triglyceride reduction.

• Hypertriglyceridemia: reduces fasting triglyceride concentrations in patients with very high triglycerides.
• Mixed dyslipidemia: helps lower triglycerides while modestly raising HDL‑cholesterol.
• Cardiovascular risk reduction adjunct: used alongside statins to improve overall lipid profile in high‑risk patients.
• Familial hypercholesterolemia adjunct: supports triglyceride control when combined with other lipid‑lowering therapies.
• Post‑myocardial infarction care: part of a comprehensive lipid management strategy after an acute coronary event.

• Omega‑3‑acid ethyl esters are metabolized to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These long‑chain polyunsaturated fatty acids inhibit hepatic very‑low‑density lipoprotein (VLDL) synthesis and increase beta‑oxidation of fatty acids, leading to reduced secretion of triglyceride‑rich lipoproteins and lower plasma triglyceride concentrations.

Omacor may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and reversible.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, abdominal pain or dyspepsia.
• Fish‑like aftertaste or mild eructation.
• Soft stools or mild diarrhea.
• Elevated liver enzymes in a minority of patients.
• Headache or transient dizziness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Pancreatitis: acute inflammation of the pancreas.
• Bleeding tendency: prolonged bleeding time or hemorrhagic events, especially with anticoagulants.
• Severe allergic reactions: rash, pruritus, angio‑edema or anaphylaxis.
• Atrial fibrillation: new‑onset or worsening arrhythmia.
• Elevated serum creatinine: indicating possible renal impact.
• Hyperglycaemia: significant rise in blood glucose levels.

When prescribing Omacor, clinicians should consider several safety aspects.

• Monitor triglyceride levels: assess response and adjust therapy as needed.
• Assess liver function: baseline and periodic testing recommended.
• Evaluate bleeding risk: caution in patients on anticoagulants or with coagulopathies.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if clearly needed.
• Renal function: adjust in severe renal impairment.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Omacur may interact with several other medicines, requiring attention to dosing and monitoring.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Warfarin and other vitamin K antagonists: may increase INR.
• High‑dose fish‑oil supplements: additive effect on bleeding risk.
• Orlistat: may reduce absorption of omega‑3 fatty acids.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Statins: monitor for muscle‑related symptoms.
• Antihypertensive agents: potential additive blood‑pressure‑lowering effect.
• Antidiabetic drugs: watch for changes in glycaemic control.