Omega-3 and Aspirin: What You Need to Know About Combining Them

When you take omega-3, a type of fatty acid found in fish oil and flaxseed that supports heart and brain health. Also known as fish oil, it helps reduce inflammation and keeps your blood from clotting too easily. and aspirin, a common pain reliever and blood thinner used to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Also known as acetylsalicylic acid, it works by blocking enzymes that trigger pain and clotting. together, you’re stacking two substances that both thin your blood. That’s not always bad—but it can be risky if you don’t know what you’re doing.

People often combine them because both help with inflammation. Omega-3 reduces long-term swelling in arteries, while aspirin tackles immediate pain and prevents clots. But here’s the catch: if you’re already on aspirin for heart health, adding high-dose omega-3 might push your blood-thinning effect too far. A 2020 study in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that people taking over 3 grams of omega-3 daily with low-dose aspirin had a higher chance of bruising and nosebleeds. Not everyone reacts this way, but if you’re older, on other blood thinners like warfarin, or have a history of ulcers, you need to be careful.

It’s not just about bleeding. Omega-3 can also affect how aspirin works in your body. Some research suggests high omega-3 levels might make aspirin less effective at preventing clots in certain people—though this is still being studied. And if you’re taking omega-3 for triglycerides or joint pain, you might be tempted to skip your doctor’s advice. Don’t. The safest approach? Talk to your provider before mixing them. They can check your blood work, adjust doses, or suggest alternatives like fish oil with lower EPA/DHA if you’re sensitive.

You’ll find posts here that dig into how supplements and medications interact—like how B vitamins help when you’re on azathioprine, or why clopidogrel comes with an FDA black box warning. These aren’t just random articles. They’re real-world guides from people who’ve been there: managing multiple meds, watching for side effects, and trying to stay healthy without guessing. Whether you’re curious about omega-3 and aspirin, or you’re juggling other combinations, the info below gives you the facts—not the fluff.