The effectiveness of intervention with omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexenoic acid in peripheral arterial disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Aims: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are routinely recommended as a lifestyle modification for preventing cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is not clear if any omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid formulations are favourable for patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Data synthesis: A systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO registration ID CRD42022336641) was conducted to determine the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on functional outcomes in people with PAD. Studies reporting any dose of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation versus placebo were assessed by two independent reviewers. Data including study design, number, age and sex of participants, period of assessment, diagnosis method for PAD, inclusion and exclusion criteria, method and formulation of omega-3 supplementation were analysed. Risk of bias was determined using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Of 1067 citations, 12 studies (n = 759 patients) met the predefined inclusion criteria. Supplementation of EPA, or EPA + DHA did not alter the primary outcome measures of pain-free walking distance, maximal walking distance; ankle brachial index, or flow mediated vasodilation versus placebo. There were no changes in secondary outcomes of circulating inflammatory markers, cholesterol, or blood pressure.

Conclusion: Mixed omega-3 fatty acids, especially in low doses, are not effective in reducing symptoms of PAD. However, there is insufficient evidence to rule out effectiveness of specific omega 3 formulations, particularly for high-risk populations. Therefore, it is recommended that a large scale, randomised control trial with high dose EPA is conducted in patients with PAD.