Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in patients with recurrent self-harm. Single-centre double-blind randomised controlled trial.
BACKGROUND
Trials have demonstrated benefits of long-chain omega-3 essential fatty acid (n-3 EFA) supplementation in a variety of psychiatric disorders.


OBJECTIVE
To assess the efficacy of n-3 EFAs in improving psychological well-being in patients with recurrent self-harm.


METHODS
Patients (n=49) presenting after an act of repeated self-harm were randomised to receive 1.2 g eicosapentaenoic acid plus 0.9 g decosahexaenoic acid (n=22) or placebo (n=27) for 12 weeks in addition to standard psychiatric care. Six psychological domains were measured at baseline and end point.


RESULTS
At 12 weeks, the n-3 EFA group had significantly greater improvements in scores for depression, suicidality and daily stresses. Scores for impulsivity, aggression and hostility did not differ.


CONCLUSIONS
Supplementation achieved substantial reductions in surrogate markers of suicidal behaviour and improvements in well-being. Larger studies are warranted to determine if insufficient dietary intake of n-3 EFAs is a reversible risk factor for self-harm.
Hallahan
Brian
B
Department of Psychiatry, Beaumont Hospital and The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Ireland.
Hibbeln
Joseph R
JR
Davis
John M
JM
Garland
Malcolm R
MR
D000328:Adult; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004281:Docosahexaenoic Acids / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D015118:Eicosapentaenoic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D012008:Recurrence; D012307:Risk Factors; D016728:Self-Injurious Behavior / Q000517:prevention & control*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D004281:Docosahexaenoic Acids; D015118:Eicosapentaenoic Acid