Synopsis

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

Eicosatetraenoic acid, also known as arachidonic acid (AA; 20:4 n-6), is an omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid. Its relationship with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is complex. Rather than being used therapeutically to support or treat RA, eicosatetraenoic acid is a precursor for pro-inflammatory eicosanoids such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which are implicated in the inflammatory processes of RA. Scientific evidence does not support the supplementation of AA for the treatment of RA; in fact, it is often considered undesirable to increase intake of AA in this context. Most research and clinical recommendations focus on increasing omega-3 fatty acids (such as EPA and DHA) to counteract inflammation in RA, as these can competitively inhibit the metabolism of AA and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.

Some studies have examined the fatty acid profiles of patients with RA, often finding altered levels of AA and its metabolites. However, interventions have typically aimed to decrease or balance AA's pro-inflammatory effects rather than supplement it. There is little direct evidence from clinical trials for the use of eicosatetraenoic acid as a treatment for RA, and supplementation is not a standard or recommended practice. Thus, while AA is biologically relevant to RA pathophysiology, scientific evidence for its use as a supportive or therapeutic agent in RA is weak, meriting a low evidence rating.

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