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A double-blind dose-finding pilot study of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for major depressive disorder

Mischoulon D, Best-Popescu C, Laposata M, Merens W, Murakami JL, Wu SL, Papakostas GI, Dording CM et al.

European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology, 2008

14 participants

Abstract

We examined the antidepressant efficacy and dose-response pattern of the n-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Thirty-five depressed adult outpatients (46% women; mean age 42+/-14 years) with a 17-item Hamilton-Depression Scale (HAM-D-17) score of >or=18 were randomized into one of three double-blind dosing arms for 12 weeks. Group A (n=14): 1 g/day of oral DHA; Group B (n=11): 2 g/day; and Group C (n=10): 4 g/day. We measured HAM-D-17 scores, plasma DHA, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and n-6/n-3 ratio. Completer response rates (>or=50% decrease in HAM-D-17 score) were 83% for Group A, 40% for Group B, and 0% for Group C; Groups A and B had significant decreases in HAM-D-17 scores (p0.05), and n-6/n-3 decreased significantly (p<0.05). DHA may be effective for depression at lower doses.

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 14 participants or records.

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