Key Takeaways
- Fish oil may further lower blood pressure when combined with medication.
- While generally safe to take together, higher doses require more caution. In some cases, taking them together can cause your blood pressure to drop too low.
- Talk to your healthcare provider before combining them. Most people can safely take them together, but monitoring and dose adjustments may be needed.
Fish oil is a dietary supplement commonly used to support heart health, but it can also lower blood pressure. Adding a fish oil supplement while already taking blood pressure medication may amplify these effects. While this can sometimes be beneficial, it can also lower blood pressure too much, especially at higher doses.
How Fish Oil and Blood Pressure Medications Interact
According to the Food and Drug Administration, omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce high blood pressure. An analysis of research studies suggests that a dose of between 2–3 grams (g) of omega-3 fatty acids may lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Fish oil and blood pressure drugs have a similar mechanism of action. When combined, these mechanisms can lead to a more substantial overall reduction in blood pressure.
Omega-3 fatty acids present in fish oil may help lower blood pressure and support heart health by:
- Relaxing and dilating blood vessels, which improves blood flow and enhances endothelial function (the inner lining of blood vessels).
- Promoting nitric oxide production, helping regulate blood flow and reducing clotting and inflammation.
- Reducing the heart’s workload by improving circulation and lowering pressure on the arteries’ walls.
- Lowering the risk of heart attack and coronary heart disease mortality, primarily in people with hypertension (high blood pressure).
Can Fish Oil Lower Blood Pressure Too Much?
A higher dose of either the medication or fish oil may cause blood pressure to drop too much (hypotension). It may cause side effects, including dizziness or fainting. When taken together, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for a safe dose.
Lower intake of fish oil (below 2 g per day) does not significantly affect blood pressure. However, higher doses of 2–3 g daily may have an effect.
Related Stories
Is It Safe to Take Them Together?
Fish oil supplements can be safely combined with most blood pressure medications for most people. However, caution and medical supervision are recommended.
Discuss with your healthcare provider in case minor dose adjustments are needed. Common blood blood pressure medications usually prescribed include:
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as Vasotec (enalapril), Zestril (lisinopril).
- Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), such as Cozar (losartan) and Diovan (valsartan).
- Beta-blockers, such as Tenormin (atenolol), Lopressor (metoprolol).
- Calcium channel blockers, like Norvasc (amlodipine), Cardizem (diltiazem)
- Diuretics, or water pills, such as hydrochlorothiazide
If you take a blood pressure medication, talk to your healthcare provider before taking an omega-3 supplement.
How to Safely Take Fish Oil Supplements
There are different fish oil supplements available in the market. The omega-3 fatty acid content of these varies widely. Always ask your healthcare provider about specific supplements you are taking.
Monitor your blood pressure at home regularly when taking blood pressure medications. If you notice that your readings are consistently lower than usual or you feel dizzy, consult your healthcare provider. A dose adjustment may improve your blood pressure regulation.