Omega-3s are essential for the proper functioning of our bodies. These acids help reduce levels of triglycerides (a type of fat present in the blood), which is why medications based on omega-3 fatty acids are recommended to treat hypertriglyceridemia. The labels for these drugs indicate that they can cause adverse reactions such as gastroenteritis, dizziness, changes in taste, and allergic reactions. and other more common symptoms, such as indigestion and nausea. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has added a new sequelae to this list that may affect people with cardiovascular problems or risk factors.
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has confirmed that omega-3-based drugs increase the likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation. Additionally, the higher the dose, especially the maximum dose of 4 grams per day, the greater the risk of these arrhythmias, according to the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU).
The Spanish Agency for Medicines and Healthcare Products (Aemps) said this is a common adverse reaction, occurring in 1% to 10% of patients taking these drugs.
«Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia in the upper chambers of the heart that causes the heart to beat chaotically, often very fast. It is not a fatal disease in itself, but its consequences can be: If blood cannot flow through the ventricles at the proper rate, it can clot and form clots, which can then travel to other parts of the body. (brain, lungs…). This can lead to conditions such as stroke, pulmonary embolism,” OCU explains.
While arrhythmias caused by fibrillation may go unnoticed, a person who takes high doses of omega-3s and experiences palpitations, fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness should see a doctor. If atrial fibrillation is diagnosed, doctors will permanently discontinue treatment.
Supplement omega-3
In addition to medications that require a prescription and medical control, Omega-3 fatty acids are also marketed as dietary supplements, and in fact, many people turn to them.
Dietary supplements do not fall under the jurisdiction of the medicines regulator, so it is unclear whether the warning affects them as well. “In general, however, food supplements often contain less fatty acids and the recommended daily dosage is lower,” OCU recalls.