Common Gastrointestinal Side Effects
One of the most frequently reported issues with gamma linoleic acid (GLA) supplementation is mild gastrointestinal distress. These effects are generally not severe and often subside as the body adjusts to the supplement. They can sometimes be managed by taking the supplement with food or lowering the dosage. The most common digestive issues include:
- Bloating and Gas: An increase in intestinal gas (flatulence) and feelings of abdominal fullness are common, particularly with higher doses.
- Diarrhea and Soft Stools: GLA can lead to a softening of stools or episodes of diarrhea in some individuals.
- Nausea and Belching: Upset stomach and burping are other minor, but sometimes bothersome, digestive complaints associated with GLA.
Potential for Increased Bleeding Risk
A more serious consideration for GLA users is its effect on blood clotting. GLA is known to slow down the process of blood clotting, which can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. This is especially important for individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking specific medications. Patients should be aware of this risk and always consult a doctor before starting GLA, particularly if they are already on blood-thinning medication. This interaction can compound the anticoagulant effect and lead to dangerous bleeding episodes.
Neurological and Allergic Reactions
While less common, some individuals have reported neurological and allergic reactions. Healthline and other sources have reported that GLA can potentially increase the risk of seizures in people with epilepsy or other seizure disorders. Additionally, some cases have noted mild allergic responses, which are most often linked to the plant source of the GLA, such as borage or evening primrose. In severe cases, an allergic reaction could cause more serious symptoms like swelling or difficulty breathing, which requires immediate medical attention.
Medication Interactions
The potential for GLA to interact with other medications is a significant concern that requires careful consideration. A consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to avoid harmful drug interactions. Key interactions to be aware of include:
- Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Drugs: The most crucial interaction is with medications that slow blood clotting, such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin. Combining GLA with these drugs can significantly amplify the risk of bruising and bleeding.
- Phenothiazines: This class of medications, used to treat mental and emotional disorders, may have an increased risk of inducing seizures when taken with GLA supplements.
- Blood Pressure Medications: GLA and its parent compounds have shown potential effects on blood pressure, which could interfere with the effectiveness of prescribed blood pressure medication.
Specific Warnings and Precautions
Certain populations and circumstances require extra caution when considering GLA supplementation. Because comprehensive safety data is still limited for many groups, it is best to avoid use unless specifically advised by a medical professional.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is insufficient reliable information on the safety of GLA for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Certain sources, particularly borage oil, contain compounds that may be toxic and could pass into breast milk. Due to these risks, avoidance is strongly recommended.
- Impending Surgery: As GLA slows blood clotting, it is standard practice to stop taking it at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery to prevent excessive bleeding.
- Bleeding Disorders: Individuals with diagnosed bleeding disorders should avoid GLA entirely due to the increased risk of hemorrhage.
- Specific Plant Sources: The source of GLA is important. For instance, borage oil, which is high in GLA, can naturally contain liver-toxic compounds called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). Users should always ensure they are purchasing a certified PA-free product to mitigate liver damage risks.
Comparing GLA Sources: Borage Oil vs. Evening Primrose Oil
| Feature | Borage Oil (Source of GLA) | Evening Primrose Oil (Source of GLA) |
|---|---|---|
| GLA Concentration | Contains the highest concentration of GLA, up to 25%. | Contains a lower concentration of GLA, typically 7–10%. |
| Potential Purity Concerns | Requires certification as "PA-free" to ensure safety from liver-toxic alkaloids. | Generally considered safer in this regard, with fewer reported purity concerns. |
| Side Effect Profile | May cause side effects including nausea, indigestion, and headaches. | Can cause similar mild side effects like upset stomach, nausea, and headaches. |
| Use in Special Populations | Should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women. | May be possibly safe during pregnancy in certain doses, but caution is advised. |
Conclusion
While gamma linoleic acid is generally well-tolerated by many adults for short-term use, the supplement is not without potential side effects. The most common issues are mild digestive complaints, but more serious risks exist, including an increased risk of bleeding, especially for those on blood thinners, and a heightened risk of seizures for susceptible individuals. Furthermore, pregnant women, those with bleeding disorders, and individuals scheduled for surgery should avoid or use GLA with extreme caution. As the source of GLA can also influence its safety profile, such as with borage oil containing potential liver toxins, consulting a healthcare professional is the best course of action before beginning supplementation to assess individual risk factors. To learn more about specific drug interactions, visit a reliable medical resource like WebMD.
What are the main side effects of gamma linoleic acid?
Common Side Effects: Mild digestive upset, such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, and nausea, are the most common issues reported when taking GLA supplements.
Bleeding Risk: GLA can slow blood clotting, which may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding, especially for individuals with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant medication.
Seizure Risk: For people with seizure disorders, taking GLA supplements, particularly evening primrose oil, may increase the likelihood of having a seizure.
Drug Interactions: GLA can interact with specific drugs, including blood thinners (like warfarin) and phenothiazines (for mental health), potentially causing adverse effects.
Source-Related Toxins: Some sources of GLA, like borage oil, can contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are toxic to the liver. It is essential to ensure a product is certified PA-free.
Surgical Bleeding: To avoid complications, GLA use should be discontinued at least two weeks before any scheduled surgical procedure.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Due to insufficient safety data and potential risks, pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised to avoid GLA supplementation.
FAQs
Question: Is GLA safe for daily use? Answer: GLA is considered possibly safe for most adults when taken daily in doses up to 2.8 grams for up to one year, but potential side effects and interactions with other medications should always be considered.
Question: How long does it take for GLA side effects to appear? Answer: Mild side effects like digestive upset can occur shortly after beginning supplementation. More serious issues, particularly interactions with long-term medication, may develop over time, which is why ongoing medical consultation is important.
Question: Can I take GLA if I'm taking blood thinners like warfarin? Answer: No, you should not take GLA if you are on blood-thinning medication without strict medical supervision. GLA can increase the risk of bleeding when combined with these drugs.
Question: What should I do if I experience side effects from GLA? Answer: If you experience persistent or severe side effects, you should stop taking GLA and consult your healthcare provider immediately. For minor issues, reducing the dose or taking it with food may help.
Question: Are borage oil and evening primrose oil the same thing? Answer: No, they are different plant seed oils. While both are sources of GLA, borage oil has a higher concentration of GLA, but also carries the risk of containing liver-toxic compounds if not properly processed.
Question: Can GLA cause allergic reactions? Answer: Yes, some people can have allergic reactions to GLA, particularly if they have a known allergy to the plant source. Symptoms can range from hives and rash to more severe issues like swelling and trouble breathing.
Question: Is it safe to take GLA while pregnant? Answer: No, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking GLA due to a lack of reliable safety information and potential risks, especially with borage oil.
Question: Does GLA interact with pain relievers like ibuprofen? Answer: There is limited information, but some reports suggest that GLA might interact with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, potentially leading to increased effects. A healthcare provider should be consulted.
Question: Does GLA interact with lithium? Answer: Yes, evening primrose oil (a source of GLA) might decrease the effectiveness of lithium. People on lithium should exercise caution and discuss GLA supplementation with their doctor.
Question: What are the signs of a severe allergic reaction to GLA? Answer: Signs of a severe allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, significant swelling, hives, and dizziness. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
Question: Are there any long-term side effects of GLA supplementation? Answer: Some experts express concern that long-term use of GLA could lead to an imbalance in fatty acid levels, with potential adverse health effects. Long-term safety data is not yet conclusive.
