Abstract | BACKGROUND: METHODS: Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled studies using purified or EPA-enriched oils in established schizophrenia were included in a meta-analysis. The effect size of EPA on psychotic symptoms was measured using Hedges' g. Publication bias was assessed with funnel plots and Egger's intercept. Heterogeneity was assessed with Q statistic and I index. Influence of moderators was assessed with meta-regression analyses in Comprehensive Meta-analysis Software version 2. RESULTS: The database included 167 schizophrenic subjects under the placebo arm (mean age, 37 [SD, 9.7] years; 37% females) matched with 168 schizophrenic subjects under the EPA arm (mean age, 37 [SD, 7.9] years; 36% females) (t tests P > 0.05). Meta-analysis showed no consistent significant effect for the EPA augmentation on psychotic symptoms (Hedges' g = 0.242; 95% confidence interval, 0.028-0.512, Z = 1.7531, P > 0.05). There were no significant effects for moderator variables such as age, sex, and EPA dose used in the trials. Heterogeneity across studies was small and statistically non significant (Q = 9.06; P = 0.170; I = 33.81). CONCLUSIONS: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on symptomatic outcome revealed no beneficial effect of EPA augmentation in established schizophrenia. However, no conclusion can be made for medium- to long-term effects of EPA in schizophrenia, in particular on relapse prevention in the early course of psychotic disorders.
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Authors | Paolo Fusar-Poli, Gregor Berger |
Journal | Journal of clinical psychopharmacology
(J Clin Psychopharmacol)
Vol. 32
Issue 2
Pg. 179-85
(Apr 2012)
ISSN: 1533-712X [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 22367656
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Review)
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Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Adult
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Eicosapentaenoic Acid
(administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
- Female
- Humans
- Male
- Psychotic Disorders
(drug therapy, etiology)
- Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
- Regression Analysis
- Schizophrenia
(drug therapy, physiopathology)
- Treatment Outcome
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