The first prescription fish oil was recently approved in the US. Since then there has been a name change from Omacor to Lovaza. It’s the same drug with the same claims: high in omega 3s and low in ocean pollutants.
No matter what the name is, it’s still similar to the best otc [over the counter] fish oil supplements available on the internet. Another thing that hasn’t changed is spending – alas.
A quality otc product can be purchased for less than $18 per month. Lovaza will cost more than a down payment to remodel the kitchen. This article will compare the differences so you can stay healthy and still prepare meals in style.
People living in coastal areas have been eating fish oil for thousands of years. Although they live in separate geographic areas and speak different languages, they have at least one thing in common: a near lack of inflammation-related diseases like ADD, swollen joints, cardiovascular problems, and skin problems like eczema.
Unfortunately, in recent decades, they have been eating more of a “Western” diet and less omega-3-enriched fish. The result? Now they have more of the diseases I just mentioned. Plus, they have access to prescription drugs they didn’t need before.
There are two omega-3 fatty acids found in both the over-the-counter fish oil and the prescription version of Lovaza: DHA and EPA. Some over the counter products will add another omega 3 called ALA, but it is not necessary. Lovaza and the best OTC products do not have it.
A question often asked is why is there a prescription fish oil in the first place?
Doctors are trained to use medicine to solve problems. However, the medical communities in both Europe and the US are slowly realizing that, in many cases, natural solutions are safer and more effective than drug-related solutions. A prescription fish oil medication allows doctors to feel comfortable using natural ingredients and stay in their comfort zone. The fact that Lovaza costs about ten times more than an over-the-counter fish oil supplement evidently doesn’t seem to bother them.
How does Lovaza justify the cost?
They claim they have very few of the ocean pollutants found in living species like salmon, mackerel, or sardines. This is true, but the best OTC fish oil products are just as clean and have independent lab reports to prove it.
They also state that the dose concentration per capsule [84%] is higher than conventional otc products. True, but this is not necessarily a benefit. Sometimes the body can’t use the massive overloads of nutrients that it’s given so quickly.
For example, I take three capsules per day of my supplement. This is equivalent to two Lovaza capsules. This allows me flexibility to distribute the amounts throughout the day. That’s why we eat three meals a day instead of one big one for breakfast. Did I mention I’m still spending 90% less and probably getting more health benefits?
The omega 3s in Lovaza are the same as those in over-the-counter fish oil. There are no contaminants or chemical additives in any of them. If your doctor tries to prescribe Lovaza, ask for an over-the-counter alternative. Remember, it’s your money. Admittedly, some doctors are already doing it. They understand the expense and the fact that you don’t need an expensive prescription for food.
If you have this type of medical professional, keep it. If not, please continue your research by visiting my website. Better yet, show it to your doctor.