The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 278 No 7439 p182
17 February 2007

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Omega-3s for depression

There is no convincing evidence that long-chain omega-3 fatty acids are an effective single treatment for depression, according to a review of evidence in February's issue of Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin.

Limited evidence suggests a possible benefit in patients receiving fish oil products containing eicosa-pentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) omega-3 fatty acids in combination with their existing anti-depression medicines. However, the DTB says that this needs to be confirmed before the routine use of such supplements can be recommended for patients with depression.