Control of salicylate intolerance with fish oils.

Abstract:

We report three patients with disabling salicylate-induced intolerance who experienced abrogation of symptoms following dietary supplementation with omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs).

All three patients experienced severe urticaria, asthma requiring systemic steroid therapy and anaphylactic reactions.

After dietary supplementation with 10 g daily of fish oils rich in omega-3 PUFAs for 6-8 weeks all three experienced complete or virtually complete resolution of symptoms allowing discontinuation of systemic corticosteroid therapy.

Symptoms relapsed after dose reduction.

Fish oil appears a safe and effective treatment for this difficult and often serious condition.