Essential Fatty Acids
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), Linoleic acid (LA)
Also known as: EFA-Caps · Fish Oil · Omega-3 · Omega-6 · Polyunsaturated fatty acids · PUFAs · EPA · DHA · Linoleic acid
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Dosing by species
Dosing data for this drug is not yet available in the VetSheet formulary. Every other section below is complete. Consult the current product label before prescribing.
Overview
Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are polyunsaturated fats that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through diet. In veterinary medicine, they are primarily used for their anti-inflammatory properties and to support dermatological, cardiovascular, renal, and joint health.
- Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DHA) are typically derived from marine sources (fish oil) and are known for reducing inflammation.
- Omega-6 fatty acids (Linoleic acid) are crucial for maintaining the epidermal lipid barrier and skin coat quality.
Clinical Pearl: The ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 is critical; modern pet diets are often heavy in Omega-6, making Omega-3 supplementation highly beneficial for managing inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis, atopy, and chronic kidney disease.
Mechanism of action
Omega-3s (EPA/DHA) compete with arachidonic acid (an Omega-6) for the enzymes cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX).
- EPA/DHA → COX/LOX → Production of less inflammatory eicosanoids (e.g., 3-series prostaglandins and 5-series leukotrienes) instead of the highly inflammatory 2-series prostaglandins and 4-series leukotrienes.
- Omega-6s (Linoleic Acid) → incorporated into the stratum corneum → improves water barrier function and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Safety & warnings
Contraindications
- Patients with a history of pancreatitis
- Patients with bleeding disorders (use with caution)
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea, vomiting)
- Weight gain
- Altered platelet function (high doses)
- Pancreatitis (rare, in susceptible individuals due to fat content)
Precautions
Use with caution in patients prone to pancreatitis or those with bleeding diatheses. High doses may prolong bleeding times. Adjust dietary caloric intake to account for the extra calories from fat.
Drug interactions
May increase risk of bleeding due to altered platelet aggregation
Synergistic anti-inflammatory effect (often beneficial, allowing for lower NSAID doses)
Monitoring
- Clinical response (improvement in coat, mobility, or renal values)
- Fecal consistency
- Signs of bleeding (if on high doses)
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Absorbed from the small intestine via micelle formation requiring bile acids and pancreatic lipase.
Distribution
Incorporated into cell membranes systemically, including skin, joints, and nervous tissue.
Metabolism
Metabolized via beta-oxidation for energy or converted by COX/LOX enzymes into eicosanoids.
Elimination
Excreted primarily as carbon dioxide and water; small amounts in feces.
Overdose
Acute overdose may cause significant gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially pancreatitis. Chronic massive overdose may lead to coagulopathies or delayed wound healing. Treatment is supportive.
Available products
Formulations
- Capsules
- Liquid pumps
- Chews
Veterinary
- EFA-Caps
- Welactin
- Free Form
- Allerderm
- Derm Caps
Human-labeled
- Various OTC Fish Oil / Omega-3 / Omega-6 supplements
Regulatory status
No regulatory data for: 🇺🇸 US · 🇪🇺 EU · 🇬🇧 UK · 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Store capsules at room temperature away from light and moisture. Liquid formulations should often be refrigerated after opening to prevent oxidation (rancidity).
Client information
Essential fatty acids are supplements that help reduce inflammation and improve skin, coat, and joint health.
- Administration: Give with food to reduce the chance of stomach upset and improve absorption.
- Patience is key: It can take 4 to 8 weeks of consistent daily use to see noticeable improvements in skin or joint conditions.
Note: Store liquid formulations in the refrigerator to prevent them from going rancid. If the product smells unusually "fishy" or bad, discard it.
- Watch for signs of diarrhea or vomiting, and contact your veterinarian if these occur.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.