Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a long-chain, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) that is a critical structural component of neuronal membranes, retinal photoreceptors, and spermatozoa. It is essential for normal brain development and function, visual acuity, and cardiovascular health. In the Indian context, DHA is widely used as a nutritional supplement, often derived from algal or fish oil sources, to address deficiencies and support cognitive and visual development, particularly in pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children.
Adult: 200mg to 1000mg DHA per day, typically as a single dose. For triglyceride lowering, much higher doses (as part of EPA+DHA combinations) of 2-4g/day are used under supervision.
Note: Administer with or immediately after a meal containing fats (e.g., lunch or dinner) to maximize absorption. Swallow the softgel/capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew.
DHA exerts pleiotropic effects through multiple mechanisms: 1) **Membrane Fluidity & Function:** Incorporates into phospholipid bilayers of cell membranes, particularly in the brain and retina, increasing fluidity and modulating the activity of membrane-bound enzymes, receptors, and ion channels. 2) **Anti-inflammatory:** Serves as a substrate for the synthesis of SPMs (Resolvins, Protectins) that actively resolve inflammation. Also reduces the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids from arachidonic acid. 3) **Gene Expression:** Acts as a ligand for transcription factors like PPAR-α and PPAR-γ, regulating genes involved in lipid metabolism and inflammation. 4) **Neuroprotection:** Promotes neurite outgrowth, synaptogenesis, and reduces neuronal apoptosis. 5) **Lipid Metabolism:** Reduces hepatic synthesis and secretion of VLDL triglycerides.
Pregnancy: **Category C (US FDA). Considered safe and recommended.** DHA is crucial for fetal neurodevelopment. Supplementation of 200-300mg DHA per day is recommended by Indian and international bodies (ICMR, WHO) during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters.
Driving: No known effects on driving ability.
| Anticoagulants (Warfarin, Acenocoumarol) | Potentiates anticoagulant effect, increasing risk of bleeding. | Moderate |
| Antiplatelets (Aspirin, Clopidogrel) | May increase antiplatelet effect and bleeding risk. | Moderate |
| NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac) | Additive effect on bleeding risk. | Mild to Moderate |
| Orlistat | May decrease absorption of DHA by inhibiting fat absorption. | Mild |
| Bile Acid Sequestrants (Cholestyramine) | May reduce absorption of DHA if taken simultaneously. | Mild |
Same composition (Docosahexaenooic acid(DHA) (200mg)), different brands: