N-3 fatty acids: Role in treating dyslipidemias and preventing cardiovascular disease

Long-chain n-3 fatty acids have an important role in treating dyslipidemia characterized by elevated triglycerides. Because the degree of triglyceride lowering is dependent upon dose of the n-3 fatty acids as well as the baseline triglyceride level, high doses (3–4 g) are especially effective in treating very high triglycerides (> 500 mg/dL), a condition associated with an increased risk of pancreatitis. Various formulations are available, with differences in bioavailability and effects on specific lipid/lipoprotein parameters. The clinical significance of these differences is unclear, but warrants further study. All of the therapeutic formulations are well tolerated and have an excellent safety record in clinical trials. The role of long-chain n-3 fatty acids as a therapy to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular events is still being defined.