Evidence supporting the use of: Omega-3
For the health condition: Bipolar Mood Disorder

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Synopsis of Omega-3 Use in Bipolar Mood Disorder

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have been investigated for their potential role in supporting or treating Bipolar Mood Disorder (BMD). Interest arose from epidemiological observations suggesting lower rates of mood disorders in populations with high fish consumption, as well as preclinical studies indicating effects of omega-3s on neurotransmission and inflammation.

Several small randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from the late 1990s and early 2000s, including a notable 1999 study by Stoll et al. (Arch Gen Psychiatry), suggested that high-dose omega-3 supplementation may reduce depressive symptoms and prolong periods of remission in bipolar disorder. However, subsequent larger and better-controlled studies have produced mixed or negative results. Some meta-analyses suggest a modest benefit for depressive symptoms, but not for manic symptoms, and the effect size is small and inconsistent.

Systematic reviews (e.g., Sarris et al., 2012; Montgomery et al., 2021) conclude that while there is some scientific rationale and limited clinical evidence for omega-3 use in bipolar depression, the overall quality of evidence is low to moderate, and there is insufficient support for routine clinical use. Guidelines from major psychiatric associations do not recommend omega-3s as a primary treatment, but they may be considered as adjunctive therapy in some situations.

In summary, there is scientific investigation and some limited clinical evidence supporting omega-3 for bipolar disorder, but the evidence base is not strong, and efficacy remains uncertain.

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