Codcap

Indications

Cod Liver Oil is a fish oil taken from the liver of cod. It naturally contains omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), vitamin A and vitamin D. It is used:

• As a dietary supplement to support general health when the diet is low in oily fish.
• To help maintain healthy bones and teeth (vitamin D) and normal vision and skin (vitamin A).
• Sometimes to ease joint stiffness in arthritis, alongside other treatment.
• To support heart health as part of a balanced diet.

How It Works

Omega-3 fatty acids become part of cell walls and help reduce inflammation and blood fats called triglycerides. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium for bones. Vitamin A is needed for eyesight in dim light, healthy skin and the immune system.

Dosage and Administration

• Adults: as directed on the pack, usually 1 to 2 capsules a day, or the stated amount of liquid oil.
• Children: only the product and amount made for children, as directed on the pack or by a doctor.

Take with or after a meal. Do not take more than the stated dose, and do not take it together with other supplements that contain vitamin A or vitamin D unless a doctor advises, because these vitamins build up in the body.

Interactions

• Blood thinners such as Warfarin, Aspirin and Clopidogrel: high doses of fish oil may slightly increase bleeding risk.
• Other vitamin A medicines, including acne medicines such as Isotretinoin: risk of too much vitamin A.
• Other vitamin D or calcium supplements: risk of too much vitamin D or calcium.
• Orlistat can reduce absorption of the vitamins in it.

Contraindications

• Allergy to fish or any ingredient of the product.
• Too much vitamin A or vitamin D in the body, or high blood calcium.

Side Effects

Usually mild: fishy aftertaste, burping, heartburn, nausea and loose stools. Taking it with food or keeping capsules in the fridge can help.

Get urgent medical help for signs of a serious allergy (swelling of the face, lips or throat, widespread rash, trouble breathing), unusual bleeding or bruising, or signs of too much vitamin A or D, such as severe headache, blurred vision, vomiting, extreme thirst, confusion or bone pain.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Pregnant women should not take cod liver oil without a doctor's advice, because too much vitamin A can harm the unborn baby. A pregnancy-specific omega-3 supplement without vitamin A is usually preferred. It is generally acceptable at normal doses during breastfeeding, but check with a doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

• Use with care if you have a bleeding disorder or are due to have surgery.
• Take care in liver disease and in people who already take vitamin A or D.
• Keep the total daily vitamin A and D intake within safe limits from all sources.
• It is a supplement and does not replace prescribed treatment.

Overdose

Taking much more than recommended, especially over a long time, can cause vitamin A or vitamin D poisoning. Signs include headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, dry skin, joint and bone pain, extreme thirst and confusion. Stop taking it and get medical help.

Therapeutic Class

Dietary supplement (omega-3 fatty acids with vitamins A and D).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and heat. Keep liquid oil tightly closed after opening; follow the pack about keeping it in the fridge. Keep out of reach of children.