From the FDA Drug Label
The effects of LOVAZA 4 grams per day were assessed in 2 randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group trials of 84 adult subjects (42 on LOVAZA, 42 on placebo) with very high triglyceride levels. The median triglyceride and LDL-C levels in these subjects were 792 mg per dL and 100 mg per dL, respectively. The changes in the major lipoprotein lipid parameters for the groups receiving LOVAZA or placebo are shown in Table 2. Table 2. Median Baseline and Percent Change from Baseline in Lipid Parameters in Subjects with Severe Hypertriglyceridemia (≥500 mg per dL) Parameter LOVAZA n = 42 Placebo n = 42 Difference BL % Change BL % Change TG 816 -44.9 788 +6.7 -51.6 Non-HDL-C 271 -13.8 292 -3.
The recommended dose of omega oil (LOVAZA) for severe hypertriglyceridemia is 4 grams per day. This dose has been shown to reduce triglyceride levels by 44.9% compared to placebo.
- Key benefits of LOVAZA include:
- Reduction in triglyceride levels
- Reduction in Non-HDL-C levels
- Important considerations: The clinical significance of these findings is not fully understood, and safety and efficacy in certain populations (e.g. pediatric, renal or hepatic impairment) have not been established 1.
From the Research
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA found in fish oil supplements, have little to no effect on mortality or cardiovascular health when taken to manage cholesterol levels, as suggested by the most recent and highest quality study 2.
Key Findings
- The study found that increasing LCn3 intake has little or no effect on all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, cardiovascular events, coronary heart disease mortality, stroke, or arrhythmia 2.
- There was a suggestion that LCn3 reduced CHD events, but this was not maintained in sensitivity analyses, and the evidence was of moderate quality 2.
- Increasing ALA intake probably makes little or no difference to all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and CHD events, but may slightly reduce risk of cardiovascular events and CHD mortality 2.
Recommendations
- Based on the evidence, it is not recommended to use omega-3 fatty acid supplements as a primary means of managing cholesterol levels or reducing cardiovascular risk 2.
- Instead, focus on other heart-healthy practices like regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting saturated fats, increasing fiber intake, and avoiding tobacco.
- If you're already taking blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder, consult your healthcare provider before starting omega-3 supplements as they may have mild anticoagulant effects.
Additional Considerations
- The study found that LCn3 slightly reduced triglycerides and increased HDL, while ALA probably reduces HDL 2.
- The evidence suggests that a Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and fish or other omega-3 fatty acids, may be beneficial for reducing cardiovascular risk and total mortality 3.