DHA & STATINS

Statins Suspected To Negatively Impact Omega-3 Fatty Acids Status-Preliminary Findings*

Research has shown that statins can increase the relative amounts of Arachidonic Acid (AA) in the blood. So while some statin drugs may weakly lower triglycerides in addition to cholesterol, the drug-induced lowering of serum fatty acid concentrations may also alter the relative percentages of important omega-3s and other PUFAs. The results warn of possible increases in the AA:EPA ratio (Harris et al, 2004), a silent pro-inflammatory marker.

AA:EPA ratio as an early marker of inflammation could be an important consideration for patients on cholesterol-lowering drugs.

To counter this, high DHA/EPA consumption, is highly recommended for individuals at risk for heart disease. DHA +EPA enjoys qualified heart health claims by the FDA. Studies suggest increased dietary n-3 fatty acids may result in a more favorable fatty acid profile during statin treatment.

REFERENCE: Harris JI, Hibbeln JR, Mackey RH, Muldoon MF, Statin treatment alters serum n-3 and n-6 fatty acids in hypercholesterolemic patients. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids Volume 71, Issue 4, October 2004, Pages 263-269.

Reference Cited By: Undurti N Das, Essential fatty acids and their metabolites could function as endogenous

HMG-CoA reductase and ACE enzyme inhibitors, anti-arrhythmic, anti-hypertensive, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, and cardioprotective molecules. Lipids Health Dis. 2008; 7: 37. Published online 2008 October 15.