What benefit do prescription omega-3 fatty acids have for A fib?

Douglas E. Severance, MD

Family Medicine

According to a recent American Heart Association clinical trial, prescription omega-3 fatty acids have no significant benefit on treating atrial fibrillation. Study participants taking prescription omega-3 fatty acids had similar symptoms and results as volunteers given a placebo or sugar pill. While eating fish high in omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to reduce the risk of sudden death from heart disease, taking a prescription omega-3 does not appear to prevent or reduce atrial fibrillation symptoms. Researchers concluded that the benefits of taking a prescription omega-3 do not justify the expense of the medication.

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Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Fish oils, grains and lamb are good sources of Omega 3 fatty acid, a nutrient that has a lot of buzz as being beneficial in the reduction of coronary artery disease. It's also been linked in studies to helping sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis. Flaxseed oil is another good source of this acid. Much research is being done on this nutrient, assisted by the fact that the Japanese diet typically has 10 times or more of the nutrient than the American diet. Some studies have also shown a reduction in colon cancer related to Omega 3 fatty acid consumption. Not everyone is able to reap the same benefits from Omega 3's however - one study shows that women with type 1 diabetes do not have a reduction in coronary artery disease with a diet high in this ingredient.

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