Omega-3 Fatty Acids Effects on Intensity of Pain in Primary Dysmenorrhea
Ninety-five women (18-22 years) with primary dysmenorrhea were enrolled in this double-blind crossover study and divided into 2 groups. Both groups received 1 omega-3 capsule (80 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid plus 120 mg of docosahexaenoic acid) daily for 3 months followed by or preceded by 3 months of placebo. After a 3 month treatment with omega 3 there was a marked reduction in pain. Ibuprofen (400mg) was used as rescue medication for severe menstrual cramps. The mean number of ibuprofen in the omega-3 fatty acids group was 4.3±2.1 and 3.2±2.5. The mean number of ibuprofen in the placebo group was 5.3±2.2 and 6.0±2.6.
Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2012 Apr;117(1):45-7. Epub 2012 Jan 17.
Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on intensity of primary dysmenorrhea.
