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Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Fish Oil, EPA, DHA, Marine Oils, Omega-3 Softgel, Omega-3 Supplement

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Meta Information

ID:omega-3-epa-dha
Name:Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

  • Fish Oil
  • EPA
  • DHA
  • Marine Oils
  • Omega-3 Softgel
  • Omega-3 Supplement

Active Compound

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Delivery

Route:
oral
Scope:
  • systemic

Regulatory Status

  • us:dietary_supplement
  • us:rx_drug
  • eu:rx_drug

Indication

Focus:
  • healthspan
  • disease_treatment
Description:
Supports cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, and maintains brain function, with prescription forms used to treat severe hypertriglyceridemia.

Typical Protocol

  • For general healthspan, a typical dose is 1-2 grams of combined EPA+DHA daily.
  • Prescription forms for treating high triglycerides can be up to 4 grams daily under medical supervision.

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:
15
High Cost:
50
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Cost for over-the-counter supplements; prescription versions may have insurance coverage.

Summary

Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily EPA and DHA, are incorporated into cell membranes throughout the body, influencing their fluidity and function. They serve as precursors to powerful anti-inflammatory signaling molecules called resolvins and protectins, which actively resolve inflammation. By competing with pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids, they help shift the body towards a less inflammatory state, a key factor in mitigating age-related chronic disease.

Purpose

Reduces systemic inflammation and supports cardiovascular and brain health.

Card Summary

A foundational fatty acid that reduces inflammation, supports brain health, and improves cardiovascular markers.

Drug Class

null

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:
7.5
Justification:
Broad, well-documented benefits for inflammation, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function.

Evidence

Grade:
A
Score:
9
Justification:
Extensive evidence from numerous large-scale human RCTs and meta-analyses.

Safety

Score:
3
Justification:
Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) with minor side effects at typical doses.

Flags

  • May increase bleeding time; use with caution if taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
  • High doses can cause gastrointestinal upset or a 'fishy' aftertaste.
  • Choose high-quality, third-party tested supplements to avoid contaminants like mercury and PCBs.
  • Prescription forms are highly purified and regulated, unlike many dietary supplements.

Verdict

A high-value, safe supplement for reducing inflammation and supporting systemic health.

Created

2026-05-05T22:01:22.432884Z

Ai Model

Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)