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ABSTRACT
Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, which are present in marine sources, including algae, represent a unique and novel group of nutraceuticals because of their proven multiple therapeutic effects, including hypotriglyceridemic, antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory functions. Evidence from numerous clinical outcome studies in patients with associated risk factors and diseases, has consistently shown that 3-3.5 g of omega-3 fatty acids consisting of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) must be taken per day in order to benefit from their therapeutic effects. It has also been consistently observed that alpha-linolenic acid (18:3, omega-3) is least effective thera-peutically and thus, there is no scientific support for using this fatty acid as a therapeutic nutraceutical. In this article, the use of products/formulations containing omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) as anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents, has been discussed based on a number of clinical outcome studies in patients with inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Crohn's disease (CD), colitis, psoriasis, asthma, burns and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Occasional conflicting results between studies, notwithstanding, it is conceivable that omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHIA) offer significant therapeutic benefits to these patients when used in conjunction with other therapies, including drugs. However, it is not known whether products/formulations containing DHIA alone will offer similar benefits. In conclusion, omega-3 fatty acid (EPA and DHA) nutraceuticals offer significant adjunct therapeutic benefits in patients with inflammatory disease(s). Their use in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, even as part of adjunct therapies, can decrease associated short- and long-term health care costs.