Omega 3 Fatty Acids: An Adjunct for Schizophrenia

Aim: The treatment of schizophrenia is commonly viewed from a pharmacological and social perspective, but issues of broader lifestyle are frequently examined. Effective antipsychotic medicines are available that usually only partially relieve the symptoms. Recently, the omega-3 fatty acid EPA has been shown to be a powerful adjunct. This article focuses on omega 3 fatty acid and its importance as adjunct in schizophrenia treatment. Background: omega 3 fatty acid is a essential poly unsaturated fatty acid consist of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Various studies depicted that omega 3 Fatty acid in the cell membrane of schizophrenic patient, if it added in diet there will be positive outcome from the effect. Methods: In this review paper, schizophrenia and significance of omega 3 fatty acid is discussed. The omega 3 fatty acid metabolism, physiology, sources, review on the significance of omega 3 fatty acid as a adjunct for schizophrenia. Discussion: A food rich in omega acids needs to be given for the schizophrenic patients. The health effects of omega 3 fatty acids come mostly from DHA and EPA. Preliminary evidence suggests that people with schizophrenia may have improvement from symptoms when omega 3 fatty acids are given. Conclusion: The omega 3 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function, as well as normal growth and development. There is no doubt that cerebral lipids in particular, have significant direct and indirect actions on cerebral function, hence it has significant effect on schizophrenia.