ω-3 Fatty Acids in Pediatric Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

ABSTRACT:

Importance

Meta-analyses of ω-3 fatty acids for depression have reported inconsistent results, and pediatric evidence is sparse. Promotion of unproven supplements may delay evidence-based care.

Objective

To evaluate whether adjunctive ω-3 fatty acid supplementation improves outcomes in moderate-to-severe pediatric major depressive disorder (MDD).

Design, setting, and participants

In a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial at 5 Swiss child and adolescent psychiatry centers, 257 youths with MDD were enrolled and randomized between April 28, 2017, and March 24, 2022, and followed up for 36 weeks, with final analysis from July 1, 2022, to January 26, 2023. Analysis was based on intention to treat.

Interventions

Participants receive

SUBMITTER: Berger G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12761337 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature