High-Dose Omega-3 Supplements Do Not Prevent Recurrence Of Atrial Fibrillation

A randomized U.S. clinical trial involving 663 heart patients has found that high-dose prescription omega-3 fatty acid supplements had no impact on the recurrence of atrial fibrillation over six months. Some earlier studies had found evidence that omega-3 supplements, such as from fish oil, might improve treatment of atrial fibrillation, a disease that can lead to reduced quality of life, hospitalization, heart failure, stroke, and death. There is currently no effective therapy for the condition. Participants received prescription omega-3 (8 grams/day) or a placebo for the first seven days, then prescription omega-3 (4 grams/day) or a placebo for six months. Many of the patients experienced sudden attacks of AF during the study. The researchers concluded: “Prescription omega-3 did not show evidence of reducing the recurrence of symptomatic atrial fibrillation.”