Ghoreishi, Z., Esfahani, A., Djazayeri, A., Djalali, M., Golestan, B., Ayromlou, H., . . . Darabi, M. (2012). Omega-3 fatty acids are protective against paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy: A randomized double-blind placebo controlled trial. BMC Cancer, 12, 355.
Investigate omega 3 fatty acids in reducing the incidence and severity of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy
Patients were randomly assigned to receive omega 3 fatty acid supplements at a dose of 640 mg three times daily, or an identical gelatin placebo capsule. All patients received the intervention throughout treatment and for one month after chemotherapy treatment. Patients were evaluated prior to chemotherapy and one month after completion of chemotherapy. Evaluations were done by a single neurologist.
PHASE OF CARE: Active antitumor treatment
Double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial
70% of patients receiving omega 3 fatty acid supplements did not develop peripheral neuropathy, compared to 40% in the placebo group (odds ratio = 0.3, .95% CI = 0.10–0.88, p = .029). There was a non-significant trend toward lower severity of symptoms in those receiving omega 3 fatty acids. No significant differences existed between groups in individual nerve conduction study results. Significant differences did exist between groups in serum EPA and DHA concentrations (p < .005) with higher levels in the experimental group. No relationship existed between serum concentrations and peripheral neuropathy scores.
Findings suggest that oral supplementation with omega 3 fatty acids may have a protective effect for development of peripheral neuropathy in patients receiving paclitaxel.
Findings suggest a neuroprotective effect of omega 3 fatty acid supplementation. These are promising results, which warrant further research in well-powered studies and in the context of other types of neurotoxic chemotherapeutic agents.