Safety and Effectiveness of Omega 3-Fatty Acids, EPA Versus DHA, for the Treatment of Major Depression

• Status: Completed
• Trial end date: 2013-03-01
• Target enrollment: 0
• Participant gender: All

Summary

This study examines the difference in the effectiveness of two natural compounds, eicosapentanoic (EPA) and docosahexanoic (DHA)omega-3 fatty acids, in treating major depressive disorder. Both types of omega-3 fatty acids are commonly found in fish oils. It is believed that a deficiency in these omega-3 fatty acids may lead to the development of major depression.

• Phase: Phase 3
• Accepts Healthy Volunteers?: No

Details

• Lead Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital
• Collaborators: Cedars-Sinai Medical Center; National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men or women aged 18-80 years old.

• Must meet criteria for current Major Depressive Disorder.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Serious or unstable medical illness including cardiovascular, hepatic, renal, respiratory, endocrine, neurologic, or hematologic disease

• History of seizure disorder.

• Substance use disorders, including alcohol, active within the last six months (past history is OK).

• History of multiple adverse drug reactions or allergy to the study drugs.