Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Omega-6 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids in which the first double bond is between the 6th and 7th carbon.

Examples of omega-6 fatty acids:

• Linoleic acid (LA)
• Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)
• Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
• Dihomo gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA)
• Arachidonic acid (AA)

Omega-6 Fatty Acids Supplements

Nonprescription omega-6 supplements containing borage seed oil, evening primrose oil and black currant seed oil, which are rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), are available.

In one study, a combination of gamma-linolenic and alpha-linolenic supplements decreased migraine symptoms ^[1].

Side effects of omega-6 supplements include diarrhea and seizures. Individuals with the history of seizures should not take these supplements. Side effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding were not studied, so it is best to avoid GLA supplements during these periods.

Omega-6 Fatty Acids Interactions with Drugs

Omega-6 fatty acids supplements (gamma-linolenic acid, black currant seed oil, borage seed oil, evening primrose seed oil, flaxseed oil) may increase the risk of bleeding in individuals who take anticoagulant drugs (blood thinners), such as aspirin, clopidogrel, dalteparin, dipyridamole, enoxaparin, heparin, ticlopidine or warfarin ^[2].