Synopsis

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

Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found mainly in fish oil. Its use in supporting or treating Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is based on its anti-inflammatory properties. COPD is characterized by chronic airway inflammation, and systemic inflammation also plays a significant role in disease progression and comorbidities. There is scientific interest in whether EPA can mitigate inflammation and improve clinical outcomes in COPD patients.

Several small clinical studies and reviews have examined the effects of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, on COPD. Some have reported modest benefits, such as reduced levels of inflammatory markers (e.g., C-reactive protein, interleukin-6), improved nutritional status, and potential gains in quality of life parameters. However, the evidence remains limited and mixed. For instance, a few randomized controlled trials suggest that EPA supplementation may help counteract weight loss and muscle wasting (cachexia) in advanced COPD, but these effects are not consistently observed across all studies. There is insufficient evidence to confirm significant improvements in lung function or exacerbation rates.

Major clinical guidelines do not currently recommend EPA as a standard therapy for COPD, and larger, well-designed trials are needed to clarify its benefits. Therefore, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence for the use of EPA in COPD, it is not robust enough to warrant strong recommendations. The overall quality of evidence is low to moderate, justifying a rating of 2 out of 5.

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