Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids for the management of metabolic syndrome in psychotic disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
Background: Individuals with psychotic disorders, particularly schizophrenia, experience significantly elevated rates of metabolic syndrome, often linked to antipsychotic treatment. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have demonstrated cardiovascular and mood benefits, but their effects on metabolic outcomes in psychotic disorders remain unclear, with no prior systematic review dedicated to this population.
Methods: A systematic bibliographic search of randomised controlled trials and comparative studies assessing the effect of omega-3 PUFAs on metabolic outcomes in individuals with psychotic disorders was conducted. Outcomes included body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, serum triglycerides, low- and high-density lipoproteins, total cholesterol, blood glucose, and blood pressure. Seven randomised placebo-controlled trials were included in meta-analyses, with four additional open-label or non-randomised trials reviewed narratively.
Results: Omega-3 PUFAs demonstrated no statistically significant effect on several metabolic parameters including BMI, waist circumference, serum glucose, lipid profiles, or blood pressure. Heterogeneity was moderate to high across outcomes (I2 range of 31-99%), reflecting variability in study design, treatment duration, and populations. Isolated benefits were observed in first-episode psychosis, but these were not significant in pooled analyses.
Conclusions: Current evidence does not support a consistent metabolic benefit of omega-3…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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