Ask the Pharmacist

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

I suffer from a mood disorder and use Paroxetine, Xanax and En: can taking Omega-3 have contraindications? How much? Does it strain the liver in the long run? What effects on the gut? Does it improve dysbiosis?


Dear Carlo, 


I confirm to you that there are many scientific studies showing the positive effect of Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in mood, anxiety and depression disorders.

The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in fact regulate the production of neurotransmitters (such as dopamine and serotonin) and help promote mood balance, calmness and coordination. Mood disturbances would be due to high levels of arachidonic acid and overactivity of its metabolizing enzyme, phospholipase A2 (PLA2). 


The mood-stabilizing effect of omega-3 fatty acids is related precisely to their main mechanism of action, namely the replacement of arachidonic acid within biological membranes. Studies show that EPA is as effective as Fluoxetine (a drug that belongs to the same drug class as Paroxetine) in controlling the symptoms of depression. 


The EPA-Fluoxetine combination was found to be better than their single intake. This therefore suggests a synergistic effect between the 2 compounds that justifies their combined use. Regarding which product to choose, surely you can start with Omegor Vitality 1000, which holds the IFOS certificate of quality and purity. The effective dose of Omega-3 in depressive disorders is about 1 gram. 


Each pearl of Omegor Vitality contains 400 milligrams of EPA and 200 milligrams of DHA: I therefore recommend that you take at least 2 capsules daily, in 1 or 2 solutions, before a meal. Omega-3s do not give problems with liver fatigue, indeed they are used at much higher dosages in the case of hepatic steatosis. In answer to your question about a hypothetical effect of Omega-3 fatty acids on intestinal dysbiosis, I can tell you that they do not have a direct effect, and due to their anti-inflammatory effect they allow improved intestinal function. I remain available for further clarification. 


I cordially greet you. 


Dr. Rosaria Ramondino Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist