Nutraceuticals improve effectiveness of antidepressants: study

A study conducted by researchers from the University of Melbourne and Harvard has found certain nutritional supplements can increase the effectiveness of antidepressants for people with clinical depression.

The researchers examined 40 clinical trials worldwide alongside a systematic review of the evidence for using nutrient supplements, known as nutraceuticals, to treat clinical depression in tandem with antidepressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs and tricyclics.

Omega-3 fish oils, S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), methylfolate (bioactive form of folate) and vitamin D were all found to boost the effects of medication.

The head of the ARCADIA Mental Health Research Group at the University of Melbourne, Dr Jerome Sarris, led the meta-analysis, which has been published in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

“The strongest finding from our review was that omega-3 fish oil — in combination with antidepressants— had a statistically significant effect over a placebo,” Dr Sarris said.

“Many studies have shown omega-3s are very good for general brain health and improving mood, but this is the first analysis of studies that looks at using them in combination with antidepressant medication.

“The difference for patients taking both antidepressants and omega-3, compared to a placebo, was highly significant. This is an exciting finding because here we have a safe, evidence-based approach that could be considered a mainstream treatment.”

The University of Melbourne research team also found good evidence for methylfolate, vitamin D and SAMe as a mood-enhancing therapy when taken with antidepressants. They reported mixed results for zinc, vitamin C and tryptophan (an amino acid). Folic acid didn’t work particularly well, nor did inositol.

Dr Sarris said the findings offered real potential to improve the mental health of people who have an inadequate response to antidepressants.

The researchers found no major safety concerns in combining the two therapies, but stressed that people on antidepressants should always consult with their health professional before taking nutraceuticals and should be aware that these supplements can differ in quality.