Abstract Title:

Efficacy of ethyl-eicosapentaenoic acid in bipolar depression: randomised double-blind placebo-controlled study.

Abstract Source:

Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2005 Mar;25(3):222-4. PMID: 16388069

Abstract Author(s):

Sophia Frangou, Michael Lewis, Paul McCrone

Article Affiliation:

Section of Neurobiology of Psychosis, PO66, Institute of Psychiatry, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK. [email protected]

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Epidemiological and clinical studies suggest that increased intake of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) alleviates unipolar depression. AIMS: To examine the efficacy of EPA in treating depression in bipolar disorder. METHOD: In a12-week, double-blind study individuals with bipolar depression were randomly assigned to adjunctive treatment with placebo (n=26) or with 1 g/day (n=24) or 2 g/day (n=25) of ethyl-EPA. Primary efficacy was assessed by the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD), with changes in the Young Mania Rating Scale and Clinical Global Impression Scale (CGI) as secondary outcome measures. RESULTS: There was no apparent benefit of 2 g over 1 g ethyl-EPA daily. Significant improvement was noted with ethyl-EPA treatment compared with placebo in the HRSD (P=0.04) and the CGI (P=0.004) scores. Both doses were well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS: Adjunctive ethyl-EPA is an effective and well-tolerated intervention in bipolar depression.

Study Type : Human Study

Print Options


Key Research Topics

This website is for information purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.

© Copyright 2008-2024 GreenMedInfo.com, Journal Articles copyright of original owners, MeSH copyright NLM.