Authors' recommendations: This report identified 10 RCTs, four observational studies, and one economic evaluation evaluating the clinical and cost-effectiveness of n-3 fatty acids in parenteral nutrition. All studies found fish oil to be safe and well-tolerated, with no negative impact on clinical outcomes. Evidence for the anti-inflammatory effects of parenteral n-3 fatty acids was provided through reports of reduced IL-6 and CRP levels and increased 5-series leukotrienes, although some studies found no effect. Conclusions regarding the anti-inflammatory effects of n-3 fatty acids may be related to the measurement used. Additionally, one study reporting no effect on inflammatory markers had a heterogeneous population, possibly contributing to the lack of effect. The only studies that were identified assessing the effectiveness of n-3 fatty acids in pediatric populations were case reports. Although these reports indicated reversal of PNALD and removal from the liver transplant list, RCTs are needed to confirm these findings.

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.cadth.ca/media/pdf/htis/L0066%20n3%20Lipids%20for%20Patients%20on%20Total%20Parenteral%20Nutrition%20final.pdf

Year Published: 2009

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health

Contact Address: 600-865 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1S 5S8 Canada. Tel: +1 613 226 2553; Fax: +1 613 226 5392;

Contact Name: requests@cadth.ca

Contact Email: requests@cadth.ca

Copyright: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)