Increased bruising with the combination of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed oil and clopidogrel

Patients’ perceptions and use of natural health products

“…12 There is also a risk of interactions between NHPs and prescription medications. [13][14][15] A recent study found that patients who take both prescription medications and NHPs, compared to those who only take prescription medications, were over 6 times more likely to experience an adverse event. 16 Consequently, a tool to identify NHP-drug interactions was developed to aid clinicians in assessing patients' risk and published in CPJ.…”

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation in the prevention of cardiovascular disease

“…It is estimated that over 70% of Canadians take natural health products. 18 However, many of these supplements have little or no scientific evidence to support their efficacy and/or safety. On the contrary, omega-3 PUFAs are among the most studied natural health products available on the market, with several contemporary, well-designed clinical trials published since 1999 examining the use of these supplements in the prevention of CVD.…”

“…While data from clinical trials have not demonstrated serious safety concerns at the doses studied, it has been noted in the literature that omega-3 PUFAs can increase the risk of bleeding and may interact with other medications that affect hemostasis, such as antiplatelet agents, flaxseed and warfarin. [18][19][20] It is important to educate patients who make an informed decision to take omega-3 PUFA supplements to monitor for signs of bleeding, such as epistaxis, excessive bruising or melena. Other adverse effects, such as generalized pain, skin abnormalities or GI disturbances, may affect the patient's quality of life.…”