The effect of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on inflammatory biomarkers in subjects with migraine: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

Objective: Imbalances in immune regulation are important features of migraine pathophysiology. In line with this, the current study investigated the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers in patients with migraines.

Materials and methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial consisted of 40 patients that were prone to experiencing episodic migraines. For two months, participants were randomized into one group that received omega-3 supplementation (n= 20), 600 mg of EPA and 300 mg of DHA, twice daily) or another group that received a placebo (n= 20). Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), interleukin (IL)-4, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and interleukin (IL)-17 serum levels were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods at baseline and following the intervention. The current study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with the registration number NCT02532023.

Results: After two months of intervention, the administration of omega-3 fatty acids resulted in a significant rise in the concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4 (p=0.010) as well as a significant reduction in concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokine IFN-γ (p=0.001) compared with the placebo. However, no significant changes were observed in serum TGF-β and IL-17 levels.

Discussion: Our findings indicated consumption of omega-3 fatty acids may have a potentially beneficial response on the inflammatory immune response in patients with migraines. Larger trials are needed to corroborate these findings.