Effect of poly unsaturated fatty acids administration on children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: a randomized controlled trial

In this 2016 randomized controlled trial (RCT), Indian children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were randomly selected to receive either atomoxetine only (stimulant medication indicated for ADHD) or a combination of atomoxetine and two polyunsaturated fatty acids [Eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexanoic acid (DHA)]. The aim of this trial was to determine the effect of taking polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on children in India with ADHD. The kids’ parents reported behavioral problems every 2 weeks for 4 months. The participants in the study group (those who received atomoxetine and 2 PUFAs) showed lower ADHD scores than those in the control group (subjects who were only given atomoxetine), although no statistical significance was detected. Improvements in these scores were more noticeable among the males with combined types of ADHD. This study concludes that polyunsaturated fatty acid supplements can improve symptoms of ADHD, although the effect is not clinically significant if the treatment period is not long enough and at adequate doses. [NPID: ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, fatty acids, PUFA, polyunsaturated, EPA, DHA, behavior]

Year: 2016

Reference: Anand, P., & Sachdeva, A. (2016). Effect of poly unsaturated fatty acids administration on children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of clinical and diagnostic research : JCDR, 10(9), OC01–OC05.