Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis
Lee YH, Bae SC, Song GG
Published in Archives of Medical Research
Methodology
Meta-analysis of ten randomized controlled trials (183 omega-3 and 187 placebo patients) giving at least 2.7 g/day of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids for a minimum of three months in rheumatoid arthritis, using fixed and random effects models
Key Findings
Omega-3 fatty acids significantly reduced NSAID consumption but did not significantly improve tender joint count, swollen joint count or morning stiffness.
Conclusions
A largely null result for joint outcomes: omega-3 mainly acts as a drug-sparing adjunct in rheumatoid arthritis.
Limitations
Small trials totalling 370 patients; three-month minimum duration; no significant joint-count effects.
Supplements Studied
We undertook this study to assess the effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (administered at ≥2.7 g/day) for a minimum duration of 3 months on clinical outcomes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Not reported
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