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Abstract

Expert Opinion: Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Bleeding—Cause for Concern?


Author: W Harris
Source: American Journal of Cardiology; Volume 99, Issue 6, Supplement 1 , Pages S44-S46
Publication Date: 3/19/2007

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Abstract

Omega-3 fatty acid ethyl esters have well-known triglyceride-lowering properties and were shown >30 years ago to inhibit platelet function. With the recent US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of these agents for treating severe triglyceride elevations, concerns about excess bleeding naturally arise. However, an objective assessment of the evidence for clinically significant bleeding reveals that such concerns are unfounded. As such, the benefits of triglyceride lowering with omega-3 fatty acids more than outweigh any theoretical risks for increased bleeding.