Lovaza Side Effects
Summary
The most common side effects of Lovaza (Omega-3 Acid Ethyl Esters) are taste changes, upset stomach, flu-like symptoms, back pain, and burping. Common side effects usually do not require medical attention however, if they persist or become bothersome you should call your doctor to discuss alternative solutions.
Common Lovaza Side Effects
The most common Lovaza side effects include the following:
- Changes in taste
- Upset stomach
- Flu-like symptoms such as headache, muscle aches, or tiredness
- Back pain
- Burping
The side effects listed above usually do not require medical attention as they will commonly diminish when your body adjusts to the medication. Your doctor may also be able to advise you of ways to reduce or prevent these common side effects from occurring. However, if any persist or become bothersome you should notify your doctor to discuss alternative solutions.
Serious Lovaza Side Effects
An allergic reaction can occur while taking Lovaza. If you experience any of the following symptoms indicating an allergic reaction, get emergency medical help right away.
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in chest
- Rash, hives, or itching
- Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat
Many other side effects can occur that are not indicative of an allergic reaction but are still very serious. If you experience any of the following severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
- Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
- Changes in vision
- Numbness of extremities
- Severe stomach pain
- Symptoms of infection such as; persistent sore throat, fever, or chills
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Sudden , severe headache
- Vomiting
- Fainting
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
Existing Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions may require special tests or dosage adjustments to ensure you can safely take Lovaza. Talk to your doctor before taking this medication if you have any of the following conditions; any allergies to foods, medications, or other substances, especially fish, fish oil, or soy; blood clotting problems, an underactive thyroid, liver problems, pancreas problems, diabetes, or if you consume more than 2 alcoholic beverages per day.
If you are pregnant or may become pregnant talk to your doctor before taking Lovaza to discuss the risks and benefits associated with this medication. If you are breastfeeding you should also talk to your doctor before taking this medication as it is not known if it passes through breast milk or the effect it may have on a newborn. Lovaza should be used with extreme caution in children under the age of 18 as the safety and efficacy of this drug has not been verified in this age group.
It is important to inform your doctor of all over the counter, prescription, and herbal medications that you are taking prior to starting a new one. Notify your doctor if you are taking the following medication as it could cause a dangerous interaction to occur if taken with Lovaza.
Lovaza is used to treat high triglyceride levels; it should be used in conjunction with a low fat, low cholesterol diet to get the best results. Certain medical conditions may require special tests or dosage adjustments to ensure that you can safely take this medication. If you experience a severe side effect or a common one persists or becomes bothersome, contact your doctor to discuss alternative solutions.
