Omega-3 fatty acid treatment in multiple sclerosis (OFAMS Study): a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Torkildsen O, et al
Published in Archives of Neurology
Methodology
Multicentre randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial; MRI every 6 months with new T1 gadolinium-enhancing lesions as primary endpoint, plus relapse rate, EDSS disability, fatigue and quality of life.
Key Findings
In the OFAMS trial, 92 patients with relapsing-remitting MS received omega-3 fatty acids (1,350 mg EPA + 850 mg DHA daily) or placebo for 24 months with interferon beta-1a added at 6 months; omega-3 produced no reduction in new MRI lesions, relapse rate, disability progression, fatigue or quality of life at any timepoint.
Conclusions
Omega-3 supplementation provided no benefit on MRI activity, relapses or disability in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and should not replace disease-modifying therapy.
Limitations
Modest sample size limits power for clinical relapse endpoints; all participants received interferon from month 6, potentially masking a small omega-3 effect; single-country population; two-year horizon shorter than MS disease course.
Supplements Studied
No beneficial effects on disease activity were detected from omega-3 fatty acids when compared with placebo as monotherapy or in combination with interferon beta-1a.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Norwegian public research funding with study oil supplied by Pronova Biocare
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