Ask the Pharmacist

Can I take Omega-3 together with Paroxetine, Xanax and En?

I suffer from a mood disorder and I take Paroxetine, Xanax, and En: could Omega-3 supplements have contraindications? For how long? Do they burden the liver over time? What effects do they have on the gut? Do they improve dysbiosis?

Dear Carlo, I can confirm that there are many scientific studies demonstrating the positive effect of Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA help regulate the production of neurotransmitters (such as dopamine and serotonin) and promote mood balance, calm, and coordination. Mood disorders are believed to be linked to elevated levels of arachidonic acid and increased activity of its metabolizing enzyme, phospholipase A2 (PLA2).

The mood-stabilizing effect of Omega-3 fatty acids is related to their main mechanism of action—namely, their ability to replace arachidonic acid in biological membranes. Some studies have shown that EPA is as effective as fluoxetine (a drug in the same class as paroxetine) in controlling depressive symptoms. The combination of EPA and fluoxetine has proven more effective than either alone, suggesting a synergistic effect that supports their combined use.

Regarding which product to choose, Omegor Vitality 1000 is a great option, as it holds IFOS certification for quality and purity. The effective dose of Omega-3 for depressive disorders is approximately 1 gram per day. Each capsule of Omegor Vitality contains 400 mg of EPA and 200 mg of DHA, so I recommend taking at least 2 capsules daily, either together or in two separate doses, preferably before a meal.

Omega-3s do not cause liver overload; in fact, they are used at much higher doses for managing fatty liver disease (steatosis). As for their potential effect on gut dysbiosis, Omega-3s do not act directly but can support gut function through their anti-inflammatory action. I am at your disposal for any further questions.

Kind regards,

Dr. Rosaria Ramondino, Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist