Omega-3s Do Offer Hope

The headline on the news article on the trial of omega-3 fatty acids in the April 6 issue was strikingly misleading. While the open-label trial found“ some improvement in manic symptoms in children with bipolar illness,” the headline proclaimed, “Latest Hope for Omega-3 Fatty Acids Shot Down for Child Bipolar Illness.”

I'd say the quoted finding of a 30 percent reduction in the Young Mania Rating Scale scores in half the subjects is quite hopeful. The concern about“ nonspecific study effects” is a concern in all research and shouldn't lead us to reject such a safe, sensible approach to a very difficult clinical challenge.