Can omega-3 supplements alleviate depression?

Miami — According to a new analysis of the effects of omega-3 essential fatty acids, there may be hope of enhanced treatment options for people with depression. Two critical omega-3 essential fatty acids available from certain food or nutritional supplements (but not manufactured by the body) are believed to play a role in optimal brain functioning and have antidepressant benefits that have not been fully recognized.

The results were presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ACNP).

In a meta-analysis of 15 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies, researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago, led by John M. Davis, M.D., research professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago and ACNP member, found that patients taking omega-3 with either eicosapentenoic acid (EPA) or a combination of EPA and docosahexaenoic (DHA) experienced clear antidepressant benefits. However, across studies, patients taking the pure DHA form of omega-3 saw no antidepressant effect.

"Our analysis clarifies the precise type of omega-3 fatty acid that is effective for people with depression and explains why previous findings have been contradictory," said Davis. "The EPA predominant formulation is necessary for the therapeutic action to occur. The DHA predominant formulation does not have antidepressant efficacy."

While scientists noted that omega-3 produces beneficial effects in patients with depression, EPA was not shown to improve mood in people who are not depressed. In several studies, people without depression experienced no difference in mood as a result of omega-3 consumption.

In another study, Davis and his team found that women with inadequate omega-3 intake were more likely to experience depression during and after pregnancy than women with adequate omega-3 in their diets.

"The findings are unambiguous," said Davis. "Omega-3 fatty acids have antidepressant properties, and this effect is ready to be tested in a large study to establish the dose range and to pave the way for FDA approval. In the meantime, omega-3 fatty acids containing EPA could be useful to augment effects of antidepressant medications. However, scientists caution that patients should always talk with their mental health professional before taking omega-3 fatty acids to alleviate symptoms of depression."