A Study of Omega 3-EPA vs. DHA Fatty Acids in the Treatment of Major Depression
This research study examines the difference in the effectiveness of two natural compounds, EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, in treating major depressive disorder. Both types of omega-3 fatty acids are commonly found in fish oils, such as Salmon, Mackerel and Tuna, as well as other marine sources. It is believed that a deficiency in these omega-3 fatty acids may lead to the development of major depression.
The research study lasts for 8 weeks and involves 4 visits after the screen and baseline visits (biweekly). If eligible, participants will be randomly placed into one of three groups. People in the first group will take 1g/day of EPA omega-3 fatty acid, those in the second group will take 1 g/day of DHA omega-3 fatty acid, and those in the third group will take a placebo (a sugar-like pill with no active ingredient). This research study is double-blind, which means that neither you nor the doctor nor any of the research staff will know which group you are in. At the end of this 8-week period you will be offered 3 months of follow-up care at no cost to you at the Depression Clinical and Research Program.
If interested please contact Irene Shyu at 617-724-3222 or ishyu@partners.org.
We initiate new studies regularly, so please contact us for additional information.