Omega XL is a nutritional supplement that promises to lower inflammation, prevent joint pain, and reduce wheezing and chest tightness caused by asthma. While the full extent of these claims has not been proven, Omega XL has been shown to reduce inflammation in people with asthma.[1] Omega XL is made from a mixture of 30 healthy fatty acids and is claimed to have 22 times more Omega-3 fatty acids than regular fish oil. Ask your doctor about Omega XL and avoid taking this supplement without their approval, particularly if you are taking any medications or have other diagnosed medical conditions.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Taking Omega XL

PDF download Download Article
  1. Be sure that the expiration date of your Omega XL capsules has not passed before taking them. The Omega-3 oils in the capsules start to break down about 2 years after they are manufactured, making them less effective. Dispose of any expired capsules.[2]
  2. If you weigh less than 45 kilograms (99 lb), take only 1 capsule per day. Do not exceed a maximum of 2 pills.[3]
    • Omega XL is safe for both adults and children as long as the recommended doses are not exceeded.
    • If you have a sensitive stomach, be sure to take each capsule with food.[4]
    Advertisement
  3. Take Omega XL capsules with a glass of water to make sure they go down properly. If you can't swallow Omega XL capsules, use a sterilized pin to pierce the capsule and pour the oil into a soft food like pudding, apple sauce, or yogurt to eat. The supplement will still be effective if it is mixed with food.[5]
  4. If you forget to take your Omega XL capsules at the time you are supposed to, take them as soon as you remember. If it is within an hour of your next dose, skip the missed one. Take the next dose and continue taking the capsules as usual.[6]
    • Do not double your dose to make up for a missed dose.
  5. Store Omega XL capsules in a childproof container, out of sight and reach of kids and pets. The capsules should be kept at room temperature,. Do not freeze Omega XL pills or expose them to heat.[7]
    • Extreme heat or cold could cause the capsules to break or melt.
  6. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Discussing Omega XL With Your Doctor

PDF download Download Article
  1. There are many over-the-counter supplements available, each with different ingredients and possible side effects. Speak to your doctor specifically about Omega XL to see if it is right for you, as it has ingredients that differ from other Omega-3 supplements. Avoid taking Omega XL without approval from your healthcare provider, as it may cause side-effects or interactions with other medications.[8]
    • If your doctor is unfamiliar with this particular supplement, inform them that its 3 main ingredients are a patented oil extract from green lipped mussels ("Perna Caniculusa"), which contains omega-3 fatty acids, including both EPA and DHA. The formula also contains vitamin E and monounsaturated olive oil.[9]
  2. Be sure to tell your doctor about any allergies or food intolerances you have, however mild. In particular, tell them if you are allergic to fish or shellfish. Your doctor will tell you if Omega XL is safe for you to take.[10]
  3. Omega XL may have interactions with other drugs. Be sure to tell your doctor about all prescription or non-prescription medications and supplements you are taking. In particular, Omega XL may cause interactions with:[11]
    • Anticoagulant and anti-platelet drugs
    • Blood pressure drugs
    • Contraceptive medications
  4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement

Tips

Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Name
Please provide your name and last initial
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Advertisement

Warnings

  • In some cases, Omega XL may cause heartburn, nausea, and diarrhea.[12]
  • Exceeding the recommended dose of Omega XL may result in increased bleeding, bloating, or intestinal gas.[13]
  • See your doctor right away if you experience side effects like dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, prolonged bleeding, skin rash, difficulty breathing, or difficulty swallowing.[14]
Advertisement

About This Article

Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS
Medically reviewed by:
Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner
This article was medically reviewed by Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS. Luba Lee, FNP-BC is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and educator in Tennessee with over a decade of clinical experience. Luba has certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Emergency Medicine, Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Team Building, and Critical Care Nursing. She received her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Tennessee in 2006. This article has been viewed 59,155 times.
92 votes - 87%
Co-authors: 9
Updated: August 1, 2024
Views: 59,155
Categories: Asthma

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 59,155 times.

Did this article help you?

Advertisement