Fish oil for induction of remission in ulcerative colitis
Abstract
Background
Fish oil supplements, which are rich in n‐3 fatty acids, may reduce inflammation, decrease the need for anti‐inflammatory drugs, and promote normal weight gain in people with ulcerative colitis.
Objectives
This review evaluates the efficacy of fish oil for induction of remission in ulcerative colitis using all available randomised controlled trials.
Search methods
The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PUBMED, EMBASE, CINAHL, the database of ongoing trials and the reference lists of all publications of included or excluded trials were searched.
Selection criteria
Randomised controlled trials and quasi‐randomised controlled trials with active ulcerative colitis patients who were treated with fish oil.
Data collection and analysis
The reviewers performed study selection, assessment of methodological quality by using different approaches: including Cochrane assessment of allocation concealment and Jadad quality assessment score. Data extraction forms were used by the two reviewers to extract the data independently. Authors were contacted for additional information.
Main results
Six studies were included. Three were of cross‐over design and three were of parallel design. No data were pooled for analysis due to differences in outcomes and methodology among the included studies. One small study shows a positive benefit for induction of remission (RR 19.00; 95% CI 1.27 to 284.24). Some of the other included studies show some positive benefits for secondary outcomes. However, these results need to be interpreted with caution due to small study size and poor study quality.
Authors' conclusions
The current data does not allow for a definitive conclusion regarding the efficacy of fish oil. There is no adequate information to make recommendations for clinical practice. More research is required.
PICOs
Plain language summary
Fish oil for the treatment of active ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammation of the large intestine that causes diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding and fever. Since there is no cure for the disease the aim of treatment is to cause a reduction of the unpleasant and painful signs and symptoms. Current, proven, treatment options for active ulcerative colitis include corticosteroids, aminosalicylates, immunosuppressive and biological agents. However, these drugs can cause side effects. New treatments which cause fewer side effects are being sought. Fish oil, which is rich in omega‐3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation and decrease the need for anti‐inflammatory drugs in patients with ulcerative colitis. Six studies looking at the effects of fish oil in active ulcerative colitis were included in the review. Study quality was mostly poor. One small study showed a positive benefit for the treatment of active ulcerative colitis. However, this result should be interpreted with caution due to small study size and poor study quality. Due to limited data there is not enough information available to determine whether fish oil treatment is effective for induction of remission in ulcerative colitis.
