Association of Omega-3 Fatty Acids With Incident Atrial Fibrillation: A Meta-Analysis
Lombardi M, Chiabrando JG, Vescovo GM, Bressi E, Del Buono MG, Carbone S, Koenig RA, Van Tassell BW, Abbate A, Biondi-Zoccai G
Published in European Heart Journal - Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy
Abstract
Meta-analysis of 7 RCTs examining omega-3 supplementation and atrial fibrillation risk. While high-dose omega-3 (>1g daily) associated with small increased AF risk, cardiovascular benefits likely outweigh risks in most populations. Emphasizes importance of appropriate dosing.
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials reporting incident atrial fibrillation with omega-3 supplementation.
Key Findings
Pooled analysis of randomised trials found marine omega-3 supplementation increased the risk of incident atrial fibrillation, with a clear dose relationship: risk rose materially at doses above 1 g/day and was minimal at typical lower doses.
Conclusions
High-dose omega-3 (notably 4 g/day icosapent ethyl or similar) carries a real atrial fibrillation signal that must be weighed against triglyceride and cardiovascular benefit; ordinary 1 g/day fish oil appears low-risk on this endpoint.
Limitations
Atrial fibrillation was not the primary endpoint of the included trials and ascertainment varied; heterogeneity in formulation, dose and population limits precision.
Supplements Studied
Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation was associated with an increased risk of incident atrial fibrillation, with a dose-response relationship.
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
No commercial funding reported; academic investigators
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.