Gamma Linolenic Acid
About
Gamma Linolenic Acid belongs to a class of 'omega fatty acids', used to prevent high blood pressure, arthritis, diabetic neuropathy, and improve heart health. It is also used to prevent acne and eczema. Gamma Linolenic Acid further relieves symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome and prevents hot flashes during menopause.
Gamma Linolenic Acid contains ‘Gamma Linolenic acid’ (GLA) that acts as an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. When too many free radicals accumulate in the body, it leads to various complications and diseases. Gamma-Linolenic acid helps nourish and protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. It fights cell damage and reduces inflammation. It also lowers the chances of heart disease by reducing high cholesterol levels.
You are advised to take Gamma Linolenic Acid for as long as your doctor has advised it for you, depending on your medical condition. Gamma Linolenic Acid is usually well-tolerated and does not have any side effects. Sometimes, you may experience side effects like diarrhoea, belching, and flatulence (gas). Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
If you take any medicines or supplements, inform your doctor about them. If you are allergic to Gamma Linolenic Acid or any other medicines, it is advised to inform your doctor before starting Gamma Linolenic Acid. Gamma Linolenic Acid should be cautiously used under a doctor's supervision if you have liver or kidney diseases, bleeding disorders, and scheduled surgery. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please inform your doctor before using Gamma Linolenic Acid.
Uses of Gamma Linolenic Acid
Medicinal Benefits
Gamma Linolenic Acid contains Gamma-Linolenic acid, which is an omega fatty acid. It is an anti-inflammatory agent that may also decrease the risk of heart disease by reducing high cholesterol levels. It protects the cells from free radical damage and reduces the risk of various cancers. It reduces the severity of nerve pain in diabetic neuropathy and reduces the pain and swelling in rheumatoid arthritis.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Gamma Linolenic Acid
- Diarrhoea
- Belching
- Flatulence (gas)
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
If you are allergic to Gamma Linolenic Acid or other medicines, please inform your doctor. Gamma Linolenic Acid should be cautiously used in conditions like liver/kidney diseases and scheduled surgery. It is essential to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding before using Gamma Linolenic Acid. Talk to your doctor before taking Gamma Linolenic Acid if you have had any bleeding problems. Avoid consuming alcohol along with Gamma Linolenic Acid to avoid any side effects. Gamma Linolenic Acid should be used in children only when recommended by a doctor. Store Gamma Linolenic Acid at a temperature not exceeding 25°C- 30°C away from direct sunlight.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interaction: Gamma Linolenic Acid may interact with blood thinners (aspirin, clopidogrel, enoxaparin, heparin, warfarin) and antipsychotic drugs (chlorpromazine, fluphenazine).
Drug-Food Interaction: Limit alcohol intake during the course to get the maximum benefits of Gamma Linolenic Acid.
Drug-Disease Interaction: If you have a bleeding disorder, kidney/liver disease, and scheduled surgery, inform your doctor before taking Gamma Linolenic Acid.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionIt is advisable to limit/avoid alcohol intake during the treatment. Please consult a doctor before consuming alcohol while using Gamma Linolenic Acid.
Pregnancy
cautionIt is not known whether Gamma Linolenic Acid will harm an unborn baby. Gamma Linolenic Acid is recommended for use in pregnant women only when advised by the doctor.
Breast Feeding
cautionIt is unknown whether Gamma Linolenic Acid passes into breast milk or could harm a nursing baby. Gamma Linolenic Acid is recommended for breastfeeding women only when advised by a doctor.
Driving
not applicableGamma Linolenic Acid does not affect your ability to drive.
Liver
cautionLet your doctor know if you have any history of liver disease before using Gamma Linolenic Acid.
Kidney
cautionLet your doctor know if you have any history of kidney disease before using Gamma Linolenic Acid.
Children
cautionGamma Linolenic Acid should be used in children only when advised by a doctor. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Maintain proper weight by following a healthy and well-balanced diet.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Exercise regularly and try to avoid stress by practising meditation or yoga.
- Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet as they contain antioxidants.
- Limit foods with high cholesterol and saturated fats.
- Cut down on sugar, salt, and processed foods.
- Drink plenty of water.
Special Advise
Inform your doctor that you are taking Gamma Linolenic Acid if undergoing any medical tests or have any surgery scheduled.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Cancer: It is a genetic change in which our cells divide uncontrollably and spread into surrounding tissues. There are two types of cancer: benign (localized) and metastatic (spread to the whole body). Cancer growth can be prevented by chemotherapy (by strong antibiotics), radiation, and stem cell therapy.
Eczema: It is a condition in which skin patches become inflamed, itchy, cracked, and rough.
Neuropathic pain: It is a nervous system disorder caused due to damage to sensory nerves. It is caused by chronic progressive nerve disease or due to infection or injury. The pain could be intermittent or continuous, such as prickling, stabbing, tingling, or burning sensation.
FAQs
Gamma Linolenic Acid contains Gamma Linolenic acid that has anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces cell damage and inflammation in the body, thus reducing the risk of various long-term diseases like cancer, high cholesterol levels, and cardiovascular diseases.
You are recommended to use Gamma Linolenic Acid for as long as the doctor has advised it for you, depending on your medical condition.
Your doctor may ask you to stop using Gamma Linolenic Acid for a while if you have surgery scheduled shortly since Gamma Linolenic Acid may slow the blood clotting process. Please consult your doctor for more information.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and follow your usual dosage.
