Pruritus-reducing effects of omega-3 fatty acids in hemodialysis patients: A cross-over randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Introduction Chronic kidney disease-associated pruritus is a common complication in patients with end-stage renal disease. In this study, we have explored the outcome of omega-3 supplementary intake for the treatment of this symptom. Methods This double-blinded, randomized, crossover study was conducted in two dialysis centers in which 40 hemodialysis patients suffering from pruritus were randomly assigned into two groups (Group A and Group B). Patients in Group A consumed omega-3 capsules for 4 weeks and after a washout period (6 weeks), they took placebo for another 4 weeks. The same was performed in Group B but in the reverse order. Pruritus score was determined at the baseline, Week 4, 10, and 14. Serum levels of prostaglandin E2 were also recorded at the baseline and Week 4. Results There was a statistically significant reduction of pruritus score in patients who took the omega-3 fatty acid supplement. The mean pruritus score decreased significantly in both first (-3.41 +/- 2.62, p < 0.001) and second (-1.00 +/- 1.84, p = 0.04) treatment period after omega-3 treatment; but no significant mean pruritus score difference in placebo group after both intervention periods was observed. The decrease in prostaglandin E2 amount was not statistically significant in the intervention (omega-3) group compared to the placebo group (p = 0.204). Discussion Our observations indicate that omega-3 fatty acids (3 grams per day) have decreasing effects on pruritus. Also, reduction in prostaglandin E2 levels in the omega-3 group did not differ from the changes in the placebo group.