Evidence supporting the use of: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
For the health condition: Lupus

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found primarily in fish oil, has been investigated for its potential benefits in autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The rationale for its use stems from EPA's anti-inflammatory properties, which may counteract the chronic inflammation characteristic of lupus. Several studies have explored the effects of omega-3 supplementation (including EPA and DHA) on lupus patients. Some small randomized controlled trials and observational studies have shown that omega-3 supplementation can reduce disease activity, lower inflammatory markers, and improve endothelial function in SLE patients. For example, a 2012 randomized trial published in "Arthritis Care & Research" found that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation led to improvements in disease activity scores and decreased fatigue in lupus patients. However, the overall quality and sample sizes of these studies are limited, with inconsistent results and a lack of large-scale, long-term trials specifically isolating the effects of EPA.

Systematic reviews have concluded that while there is some evidence supporting the beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids in lupus, the strength of evidence is moderate at best, and more high-quality research is needed. EPA is not a traditional remedy for lupus, and its use is based on modern scientific investigation rather than historical precedent. In summary, the use of EPA for lupus is justified by preliminary scientific evidence, but current support remains modest (rated 2/5), and it should be considered an adjunct rather than a primary therapy.

More about EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
More about Lupus