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When taken by mouth: DHA is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when taken by mouth. It has been used safely in studies for up to 4 years. Most side effects are mild and are related to stomach and intestine issues. But people should limit intake of DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids to 3 grams per day, with no more than 2 grams per day from a dietary supplement unless recommended by a healthcare professional. Doses of DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids greater than 3 grams per day is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. Taking more than 3 grams per day of omega-3 fatty acids might slow blood clotting and may increase the chance of bleeding.
When given by IV: DHA is POSSIBLY SAFE when injected by IV along with the fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) for a short period of time. DHA plus EPA has been safely given by IV for up to 14 days.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: DHA is
LIKELY SAFE when taken by mouth in appropriate amounts during pregnancy and breast-feeding. DHA is commonly used during pregnancy and is an ingredient in some prenatal vitamins. DHA is a normal component of breast milk and is added as a supplement to some infant formulas. If it is taken by the mother during lactation, DHA levels increase in the breast milk. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding are advised to get 200-300 mg of DHA daily. While this intake can be achieved by consuming two to three servings of fish weekly during pregnancy, and one to two servings per week during lactation, women who are nutrient deficient or who do not eat fish may meet this need by taking a supplement.
Infants and children: DHA is
LIKELY SAFE when used appropriately. DHA is a component of some infant formula. Also, DHA has been safely given to children 7 years and older at doses of 30 mg/kg per day for up to 4 years. It has also been safely given to children 4 years and older at doses of 0.4-1 gram per day for up to 1 year. But DHA is
POSSIBLY UNSAFE when used in preterm infants born less than 29 weeks gestational age. it might worsen breathing in preterm infants who already have difficulty breathing.
Aspirin-sensitivity: DHA might affect your breathing if you are sensitive to aspirin.
Bleeding conditions: DHA alone does not seem to affect blood clotting. However, when taken with EPA as in fish oil, doses over 3 grams daily might increase the risk of bleeding.
Diabetes: DHA seems to increase blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
Low blood pressure: DHA can lower blood pressure. This might increase the risk of blood pressure becoming too low in people who already have low blood pressure.
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