Omega-3 fatty acids supplementation associated with increased risk of incident AF
Omega-3 fatty acids supplementation and risk of atrial fibrillation: an updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Introduction and methods
Omega-3 fatty acids (O3FA) are being utilized to reduce the risk of CV events in adults at high risk for, or with established CVD and elevated triglycerides. However, safety results of CVOTs investigating O3FA supplementation showed a higher incidence of AF events in patients taking O3FA, compared to those on placebo. This meta-analysis investigated whether O3FA supplementation, compared with placebo, is associated with an increased risk of incident AF.
Five RCTs were included in this study-level meta-analysis: REDUCE-IT, ASCEND, R&P, STRENGTH and OMEMI [1-5]. The primary endpoint of the analysis was onset of AF.
Main results
- The random effect model showed that O3FA supplementation was associated with an increased risk of onset of AF, compared to placebo (Incidence Rate Ratio [IRR] 1.37, 95%CI 1.22-1.54, P<0.001).
- No significant heterogeneity and no publication bias were found.
Conclusion
This meta-analysis of five RCTs showed that O3FA supplementation, compared to placebo, is associated with an increased risk of incident AF in patients with elevated triglycerides and at elevated CV risk.
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