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1: Postgrad Med. 2008 Jul;120(2):92-100.Click here to read Links

Dispelling the myths about omega-3 fatty acids.

Sadovsky R, Collins N, Tighe AP, Safeer RS, Morris CM, Brunton SA.

SUNY Health Science Center, Brooklyn College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA. richard.sadovsky@downstate.edu

Although there is an enormous amount of information available on omega-3 fatty acids, it is sometimes misleading, contradictory, and unsupported by scientific fact. Consumers and medical professionals may be confused regarding the potential value of omega-3 fatty acid supplements, despite having either read or heard about fi sh oil consumption and/or omega-3 fatty acid benefits and risks. The availability of a prescription formulation of omega-3-acid ethyl esters (P-OM3) has provided important new information that helps to dispel the myths and alleviate concerns surrounding the use of omega-3 fatty acids in clinical practice. The safety and efficacy of P-OM3, but not dietary-supplement omega-3 fatty acids, are documented in placebo-controlled trials. In general, studies using Food and Drug Administration-approved dosages of P-OM3 have not substantiated various myths surrounding the negative effects of omega-3 fatty acids. Thus, there are now evidence-based clinical guidelines for the use of omega-3 fatty acids in clinical practice.

PMID: 18654074 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Patient Drug Information

  • Omega-3-acid Ethyl Esters (Lovaza® )

    Omega-3-acid ethyl esters are used together with lifestyle changes (diet, weight-loss, exercise) to reduce the amount of triglycerides (a fat-like substance) in your blood. Omega-3-acid ethyl esters are in a class of med...

  • Source: AHFS Consumer Medication Information