A Study of Omega-3 as an Augmentor of Antidepressant Treatment for Major Depression
A Study of Omega-3 as an Augmentor of Antidepressant Treatment for Major Depression
The purpose of this study is to determine whether augmentation of antidepressant medication
 with Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids increases the speed and degree of improvement for
 patients with major depression
The study will be a 4 week, parallel-group double blind randomised control trial of the
 efficacy pf Omega-3 as an augmentor of antidepressant treatment for depression. People aged
 between 18 and 65 with a first or new episode of depression warranting treatment with
 antidepressant medication will be recruited. In addition to their antidepressant medication,
 participants will be randomly allocated to receive either Omega-3 (fish oil) or placebo
 (paraffin oil)for 4 weeks. Participants will commence treatment with the antidepressant and
 Omega-3/placebo simultaneously. Participants will be followed up at 1,3 and 4 weeks and will
 be asked to rate their mood daily for the 4 week study period. Blood samples will be taken
 pre and post treatment to measure change in Omega-3 levels.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Participants must present with a first or new episode of DSM IV non-psychotic major
 depression warranting treatment with antidepressant mediation.

 -  Must be able to give informed consent.

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  History of psychosis or mania/hypomania or personality disorder.

 -  Non-English speaking or otherwise unable to provide historical information.

 -  Having taken Omega-3 dietary supplements in the last 3 months.

 -  History of allergy to Omega-3 supplements, finfish or shellfish.

 -  Pregnancy, breast feeding or plans to become pregnant during course of study.

 -  Post-natal depression

 -  Current drug or alcohol abuse or dependence or history of abuse or dependence over the
 last 12 months.

 -  Unstable thyroid function

 -  Hepatic or renal impairment or other medical conditions that may interfere with the
 absorption and metabolism of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids

 -  Coagulopathy or anticoagulant treatment due to theoretical bleeding risk.

 -  Patients who, in the investigator's judgment pose a current serious suicidal or other
 safety risk, or patients who will not likely be able to comply with the study
 protocol.