GlaxoSmithKline says Rx omega-3 fatty acids show no benefit in atrial fibrillation

Findings from a new study show, compared to placebo, treatment with high-dose prescription omega-3 fatty acids did not reduce the recurrence of symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) among patients with symptomatic paroxysmal AF or persistent AF who have no evidence of substantial structural heart disease. The study was presented yesterday at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions and also published on-line in The Journal of the American Medical Association.

This was a six-month, multicenter, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial sponsored and funded by UK pharma giant GlaxoSmithKline (LSE: GSK). It examined the efficacy and safety of prescription omega-3 fatty acids - GSK’s Lovaza, omega-3-acid ethyl esters for the prevention of recurrent symptomatic atrial fibrillation, which generated sales of £138 million ($198.7 million) in the third quarter of 2010, a year-on-year rise of 20%.

Lovaza is a prescription medication made from omega-3 fish oil indicated as an adjunct to diet, to reduce triglyceride levels in adult patients with severe (≥ 500 mg/dL) hypertriglyceridemia. The effect of Lovaza on cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in patients with elevated triglycerides has not been determined. The product is not indicated for the treatment or prevention of recurrent symptomatic AF. GSK has full commercial rights for Lovaza in the USA.