Are Fish Oil Supplements Advisable When Having Asthma?

Posted on Wed, 14 Jan 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 14 Jan 2015 Answered on

Sat, 31 Jan 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have asthma and have read that fish oil supplements are good for my condition. How much do I take everyday for best results. I have purchased Nature Made 1000mg/300mg fish oil. It says on the bottle to take 2 capsules everyday but I have read that I may need much more for my condition. What would you suggest.

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
3 softgel capsules a day.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mam.

I understand your query and concern.

For your medical condition,you need to take 3 softgels with meals once daily for 6 months atleast.

This serving of 3 softgel capsules account for fish oil concentrate of 3000 mg and Omega 3 fatty acid concentration of 750 mg a day,which are quite enough for asthmatic patients.

Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Suresh Heijebu (2 hours later)

I have a phobia about taking more than one of anything at one time. Do I have to take these at the same time or can I space them out over the day with meals?
Thanks

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Spacing is required between the capsule intake.

Detailed Answer:
Hello Mam,

I understand your concern.

You need to space them as one capsule ,3 times a day with meal.

This means you need to take one capsule with breakfast,one with lunch and one with dinner.

Post your further queries,if any.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Suresh Heijebu (21 hours later)

One last question on the fish oil supplements. You told me to take these for at least 6 months. Does this mean no longer than 6 months or do I take these everyday for life.
Thank You for your time

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Drug not needed on lifelong basis.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I mean this drug has to be taken for at least 6 months for experiencing full effects.

Afterwards,this drug can be taken on intermittent bases with 2-3 months drug free interval in between.

Like this you can continue for 2-3 years, but not life long. It may have side-effects.

Such regimen described above can offer drug storage in the body for long periods of time, hence need not be taken on life long basis.

Thank you.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj