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"FISH OIL" PROTECTS AGAINST RESTENOSIS AFTER ANGIOPLASTY.

The omega-3 or n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids appear to protect against the development of atherosclerosis in human subjects and in animal models. Now, preliminary evidence suggests that they may also help preserve coronary- artery patency after angioplasty.

Investigators in Dallas randomized 82 men to either receive or not receive a daily dietary supplement of n-3 fatty acids for one week before angioplasty and six months afterward; both the treated and untreated groups received aspirin and dipyridamole, standard therapy after angioplasty. The incidence of restenosis, as determined by repeat angiograms three to four months after angioplasty, was significantly lower in the treated group than in the control group (16 versus 36 percent). There were no important complications in the treated patients.

These results suggest that, at least in men, n-3 fatty acids may be more effective at preserving coronary patency after angioplasty than aspirin, warfarin, or calcium-channel blockers. This hypothesis requires confirmation in larger studies, particularly trials that include women. Although the results of this study are preliminary, they are likely to augment the growing interest in adding n-3 fatty acids to the diet.

— ALK

Published in Journal Watch General Medicine September 27, 1988

Citation(s):

Dehmer G J; Popma J J; van den Berg E K et al. Reduction in the rate of early restenosis after coronary angioplasty by a diet supplemented with n-3 fatty acids. N Engl J Med 1988 Sep 22 319 733-740.

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