Nutritional supplement (Omega-3 fatty acid and vitamin supplement)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Cod liver oil is a natural supplement made from the liver of codfish that provides your body with omega-3 fatty acids (healthy fats), vitamin A, and vitamin D — nutrients that help keep your heart, bones, joints, and immune system healthy.
Provides bioavailable eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that modulate inflammatory pathways by inhibiting NF-κB signaling and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, IL-6) production, while retinol and cholecalciferol facilitate calcium absorption and bone mineralization via vitamin D receptor activation and support immune function through pattern recognition receptor modulation.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
For adults, take 1 capsule of 1000 mg once or twice daily with food to help your body absorb it better. If you're using the 300 mg capsule, you may take 1-3 capsules daily. Popular brands in Nigeria include Emzor Fresh Seas, Icesea 1000, Neucod, and Krishat. Always follow the dosage on the pack or as your pharmacist advises.
If you forget to take your cod liver oil, just take it when you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one — don't double up. It's a supplement, so missing one dose is not a big deal, but try to be consistent for best results.
Buy only from reputable pharmacies — avoid roadside sellers or open market products that may have been stored in the sun and lost their potency. Do not take more than the recommended dose thinking it will work faster — too much vitamin A is toxic. Check the expiry date and NAFDAC number on the pack before buying.
Blood-thinning drugs like warfarin or aspirin — cod liver oil may increase the risk of bleeding when taken together. Vitamin A or vitamin D supplements — taking them alongside cod liver oil can lead to too much of these vitamins in your body, which is dangerous. If you take blood pressure medication, talk to your pharmacist before starting cod liver oil.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Cod with your other drugs?
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking cod liver oil because too much vitamin A can be harmful to the unborn baby — do not take high doses without medical advice.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can soften the capsules if kept in hot areas. Do not store near your window or in your car. Keep out of reach of children. If the capsules look swollen, leaking, or smell very fishy and rancid, throw them away.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Cod Liver Oil?
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