Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Patients with Hypertriglyceridemias and Atherosclerosis

Abstract

Along with increased levels of low-density cholesterol, lipid factors of the risk of cardiovascular complications (CVC) include hypertriglyceridemia, particularly increased plasma levels of remnant particles. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFA) are essential for normal functioning of cell membranes, retina, nerve tissue, skeletal muscles, etc. Among the large family of fatty acids (FA), eicosapentaenoic (EPC) and docosahexaenoic (DHX) FA are most studied. The beneficial effect of ω-3 PUFA consumption on the cardiovascular system is related with improvement of blood rheology, antiarrhythmic and anti-inflammatory effects, and a decrease in triglycerides. Large randomized studies of ω-3 PUFA (mixed EPC and DHX or only EPC) have demonstrated their efficiency and safety and a capability for reducing the incidence of CVC and sudden death as well as improvement of the prognosis in various patient populations. In the STRENGTH study (combination of omega-3 and statins), no significant decrease in the risk of CVC was achieved in patients with high triglycerides and low high-density lipoproteins. The ω-3 PUFA treatment is regulated by current international Guidelines and Consensuses as a part of combination therapy with statins for reduction of the risk of CVC and correction of pronounced hypertriglyceridemia.