Individual research recommendation details

Recommendation ID

CG155/2

Question

What is the clinical and cost effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids in the treatment of children and young people considered to be at high risk of developing psychosis?

Any explanatory notes
(if applicable)

The suggested programme of research would need to test out, using an adequately powered, multicentre randomised controlled design, the likely benefits and costs of using omega-3 fatty acids for children and young people at high risk of developing psychosis. The outcomes considered should include transition to psychosis, quality of life, symptomatic and functional improvements, treatment acceptability, side effects and self-harm. There should be follow-up at 3 years. The trial should also estimate the cost effectiveness of intervening.
Why this is important:- A number of interventions have been trialled in an attempt to avert the development of psychosis, including drugs, psychological interventions and other interventions. A relatively recent, moderate-sized randomised controlled trial of omega-3 fatty acids has shown the best evidence of any intervention, to date, reducing the rates of transition from 'high risk' states to a sustained psychosis. However, this is a single trial, which is underpowered, undertaken in one centre and lacks any health economic analysis.

Source guidance details

Comes from guidance

Psychosis and schizophrenia in children and young people: recognition and management

Number

CG155

Date issued

January 2013

Other details