General Dosage
1-3g combined EPA+DHA daily with a fat-containing meal
Maximum dose: 5g combined EPA+DHA/day (FDA considers up to 5g/day safe from supplements; prescription icosapent ethyl uses 4g/day under medical supervision)
Fish Oil Dosage Guide
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer
Dosage Recommendations
General recommendation: 1-3g combined EPA+DHA daily with a fat-containing meal
Timing: With the largest fat-containing meal of the day for optimal absorption; divide doses above 2g into two daily servings for GI tolerance • Take with food for best absorption.
Dosage by Condition
General cardiovascular support
1g combined EPA+DHA dailyStrong
High triglycerides
2-4g combined EPA+DHA dailyStrong
Depression (mild-to-moderate)
1-2g EPA daily (EPA-dominant formulation, ≥60% EPA)Moderate
Joint pain / inflammatory arthritis
2.5-3g combined EPA+DHA daily for 12+ weeksModerate
Cognitive support / brain health
1-2g combined EPA+DHA daily (DHA-emphasis for structural brain support)Moderate
| Condition | Recommended Dose | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| General cardiovascular support | 1g combined EPA+DHA daily | Strong |
| High triglycerides | 2-4g combined EPA+DHA daily | Strong |
| Depression (mild-to-moderate) | 1-2g EPA daily (EPA-dominant formulation, ≥60% EPA) | Moderate |
| Joint pain / inflammatory arthritis | 2.5-3g combined EPA+DHA daily for 12+ weeks | Moderate |
| Cognitive support / brain health | 1-2g combined EPA+DHA daily (DHA-emphasis for structural brain support) | Moderate |
Upper limit: 5g combined EPA+DHA/day (FDA considers up to 5g/day safe from supplements; prescription icosapent ethyl uses 4g/day under medical supervision)
Timing & Absorption
With the largest fat-containing meal of the day for optimal absorption; divide doses above 2g into two daily servings for GI tolerance
Best taken with food for optimal absorption.
References
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- Mocking RJ, Harmsen I, Assies J, Koeter MW, Ruhe HG, Schene AH (2016). Meta-analysis and meta-regression of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation for major depressive disorder. Translational Psychiatry. DOI PubMed