What are the effects of fish oil on the process of platelet aggregation?
Does the use of fish oil (Omega-3) have any effects on the platelet aggregation process, since paroxetine what use does this power? Specifically, does it inhibit to some extent the uptake of serotonin by platelets in the bloodstream?
Dear Carlo,
Omega-3 fatty acids have an antiplatelet and blood-thinning effect.
Clinical research shows that at the recommended dosages there is no significant incidence of bleeding. Serotonin (5-HT) is an important neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and is involved in many other biological processes, such as hemostasis.
Platelets do not produce serotonin: they capture that released by surrounding cells and then release it to promote aggregation. SSRIs can inhibit the uptake and accumulation of serotonin in platelets. Their use may also predispose patients to the risk of bleeding.
Several studies have been conducted on the risk of bleeding in patients on SSRI therapy. These showed a higher incidence in patients with a clinical history of gastrointestinal bleeding, or who were using SSRIs in combination with aspirin or other NSAID anti-inflammatory drugs.
Age is also a predisposing factor: the highest number of cases has been reported in patients older than 80 years. You can consult some of these studies through the links below:
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12523917.
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21625637.
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2825017/?tool=pubmed.
With this response, I have provided you with a few more assessment tools; however, I recommend that you talk to your physician and inform him or her of your choice to start Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in conjunction with other drug therapies.
Sincerely,
Dr. Rosaria Ramondino
