DHA

DHA is found in Omega 3 Fatty Acids and is used to lower bad cholesterol. Can cause gas and nausea.

DHA Overview

Reviewed: August 7, 2014
Updated: 

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid.

DHA is used most often as a prenatal and infant supplement, for maintenance of normal brain function, and the prevention and treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD).

DHA is thought to work in several different ways, but more evidence is needed to determine how DHA produces its effects.

Common side effects of DHA include nausea and flatulence.

DHA is used most often as a prenatal and infant supplement, maintenance of normal brain function, as well as for the prevention and treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD), hyperlipidemia, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, dementia, and depression.

DHA has not been proven effective for all of the uses listed above. DHA may be used for other conditions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Side Effects of DHA

Common side effects of DHA include the following:

  • Nausea
  • Flatulence

This is not a complete list of DHA side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

DHA Interactions

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your doctor if you take medications to lower your blood pressure.

This is not a complete list of DHA drug interactions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

DHA Precautions

Special precautions & warnings:

  • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using DHA if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or trying to become pregnant.
  • Some people who are allergic to seafood such as fish might also be allergic to fish oil supplements. Until more is known, patients allergic to seafood should avoid use or use fish oil supplements  with caution.