Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid that is structurally and functionally similar to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which have been much more extensively studied for their anti-inflammatory effects in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The rationale for using DPA in RA comes from its putative anti-inflammatory properties, as omega-3 fatty acids are known to modulate the production of inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and cytokines. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that DPA can reduce inflammation and may contribute to the overall benefits seen with mixed omega-3 supplementation. However, direct clinical trials evaluating isolated DPA supplementation in RA patients are very limited, and most of the scientific evidence supporting omega-3 use in RA is based on EPA and DHA rather than DPA specifically. A few emerging studies indicate that DPA may have unique anti-inflammatory actions and could enhance the effectiveness of EPA and DHA, but these findings require further validation in well-designed, large-scale human trials. In summary, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and some preliminary data supporting DPA for RA, the evidence base is currently modest, and DPA is often included as part of a broader omega-3 intervention rather than as a standalone therapy.

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Other ingredients used for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Other health conditions supported by DPA (docosapentaenoic acid)

Products containing DPA (docosapentaenoic acid)

Pure Encapsulations Pro-Resolve Omega
Douglas Laboratories QÜELL® FISH OIL DHA Ultra SPM