Assessing the Efficacy of Omega-3 Fatty Acids + Statins vs. Statins Only on Cardiovascular Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 40,991 Patients
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Clinical guidelines recommend statin use in patients with a vast array of cardiovascular disturbances. However, there is insufficient evidence regarding the concomitant use of omega-3 fatty acids in addition to statins. This meta-analysis aims to uncover the complete effects of this combination therapy on cardiovascular outcomes, lipid biomarkers, inflammatory markers, and plaque markers.
METHODS
A detailed literature search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane, and MEDLINE databases, and all the relevant studies found up to September 2023 were included. The primary outcomes assessed in this meta-analysis was 1) Composite of fatal and non-fatal myocardial infarction, 2) Composite of fatal and non-fatal stroke, 3) Coronary revascularization, 4) Death due to cardiovascular causes, 5) MACE (Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events), 6) Unstable angina, 7) Hospitalization due to unstable angina, 8) and lipid volume index. Secondary outcomes included lipid markers, hsCRP, EPA levels, and EPA/AA ratio.
RESULTS
14 RCTs were included, featuring a total of 40,991 patients. Patients receiving the omega-3 + statin regimen were associated with a statistically significant decrease in the incidence of MI, MACE, unstable angina, hospitalization due to unstable angina, Total cholesterol levels, triglycerides, hsCRP, and lipid volume index in comparison to their counterparts receiving placebo + statin (P < 0.05). In contrast, our analysis found no statistically significant difference…
How strong is the evidence?
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. Reported size: 40,991 participants or records.
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