Relationship: Schizophrenia and DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
For the health condition: Schizophrenia

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Synopsis

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

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, has been investigated for its potential role in the management of schizophrenia. The scientific interest is based on the observation that individuals with schizophrenia often have lower levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including DHA, in their blood and brain tissues. DHA is a major structural component of neuronal membranes and is believed to influence neurotransmitter systems, neuroinflammation, and synaptic plasticity—processes implicated in schizophrenia pathology.

Several small-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses have evaluated whether DHA supplementation, either alone or as part of a fish oil preparation, can improve symptoms of schizophrenia. The results are mixed: some studies report modest improvements in positive and negative symptoms, particularly in patients with early-stage or first-episode schizophrenia, while others find no significant benefit compared to placebo. The largest and most recent meta-analyses generally conclude that omega-3 supplementation shows only a small or non-significant effect overall, but may be more helpful in specific subgroups (e.g., those at ultra-high risk for psychosis).

Based on current evidence, DHA is not considered a primary or standalone treatment for schizophrenia, but may be used as an adjunctive therapy. Major psychiatric guidelines do not recommend DHA as standard care, but it is sometimes suggested for patients interested in nutritional approaches. The overall quality of evidence is moderate to low, justifying a rating of 2 out of 5.

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Other ingredients used for Schizophrenia

DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
ginkgo biloba
l-5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine salt (5-MTHF)
n-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
niacin (vitamin B3)
omega-3 fatty acids
vitamin B6
vitamin C
vitamin D
zinc
5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine
Docosahexaenoic Acid

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Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
For the health condition: Schizophrenia

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Schizophrenia

Other health conditions supported by DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Products containing DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)For the health condition: Schizophrenia

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Schizophrenia

Other health conditions supported by DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Products containing DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
For the health condition: Schizophrenia