OMEGA-3 Interventions in Alcohol Dependence and Related Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Propositions

Author(s)

Galduroz, Jose Carlos F. ^[1] ; Bezerra, Andreia Gomes ^[1] ; Pires, Gabriel Natan ^{[1, 2]} ; Pauluci, Renata ^[1] ; Noto, Ana Regina ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Fed Sao Paulo, Dept Psicobiol, Sao Paulo - Brazil

^[2] Santa Casa Sao Paulo Sch Med Sci, Dept Physiol Sci, Sao Paulo - Brazil

• Document type: Review article
• Source: Current Neuropharmacology; v. 18, n. 5, p. 456-462, 2020.
• Web of Science Citations: 0

Abstract

Background: Pharmacological treatment for alcohol dependence has only three approved drugs: disulfiram, naltrexone and acamprosate. The effects of these drugs are, however, limited, presenting several side effects and a modestly higher efficacy compared to placebo. The administration of omega-3 might bring new perspectives to relapse prevention. Methods: This systematic review aimed to analyze the available literature, compiling the studies that used omega-3 to prevent relapse in alcohol dependents. Results: The databases used were PubMed and Web of Science. We identified 2,231 studies and only five articles addressed the administration of omega-3 and alcoholism. Preclinical studies evaluating the effects of PUFAs related to chronic alcohol administration showed improvements in behavioral, cellular and molecular levels. The clinical trial yielded inconclusive results. Conclusion: Despite the reduced number of studies, omega-3 interventions seem to be promising for controlling issues related to alcohol dependence. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/19472-5 - Innovative interventions related to alcohol consumption problems in Brazil: search for new approaches aimed at an old public health issue
• Grantee: Ana Regina Noto
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants