Fish Oil - Cyclosporine Interaction
Herbal: Fish Oil
Drug: Cyclosporine
Brand names:
Neoral, Gengraf, Sandimmune, Ciclosporine, Cequa, Verkazia
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jun 16, 2024
Interaction Details
Cyclosporine is classified as belonging to the following category: Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Taking fish oil with cyclosporine might increase levels and adverse effects of cyclosporine.
In kidney transplant recipients on a general immunosuppressive regimen, taking omega-3 fatty acids daily seems to increase peak blood levels of cyclosporine when compared with placebo. This increase was as much as 20% after one month. However, the area under the curve was not significantly affected.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
ProbableInteraction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
References
- Busnach, G., Stragliotto, E., Minetti, E., Perego, A., Brando, B., Broggi, M. L., and Civati, G. Effect of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on cyclosporine pharmacokinetics in kidney graft recipients: a randomized placebo- controlled study. J Nephrol. 199
Fish Oil Overview
Fish oil is a dietary supplement derived from fatty fish like mackerel, salmon, and anchovies. It's rich in omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids are crucial for various bodily functions, including brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation. Fish oil is often consumed to support cardiovascular health, lower blood triglyceride levels, and potentially alleviate symptoms of certain inflammatory conditions. It is available in various forms, such as capsules, liquid, and as an ingredient in fortified foods.
Cyclosporine Overview
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Cyclosporine and cyclosporine (modified) are used with other medications to prevent transplant rejection (attack of the transplanted organ by the immune system of the person who received the organ) in people who have received kidney, liver, and heart transplants. Cyclosporine (modified) is also used alone or with methotrexate (Rheumatrex) to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints) in patients whose symptoms were not relieved by methotrexate alone. Cyclosporine (modified) is also used to treat psoriasis (a skin disease in which red, scaly patches form on some areas of the body) in certain patients who have not been helped by other treatments. Cyclosporine and cyclosporine (modified) are in a class of medications called immunosuppressants. They work by decreasing the activity of the immune system.
Fish Oil - More Interactions
Fish Oil interacts with 323 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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