Essential fatty acids and inflammation
Article Abstract:
Fatty acids and other nutrients are termed ''essential'' when they can not be made by the body and must be obtained from the diet. Two types of fatty acids are essential, both of which have two or three double bonds, and are thus unsaturated. Cellular reactions convert the essential fatty acids into prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes, which together are called eicosanoids. These substances can generally be considered as locally produced and locally acting hormones. In addition, fatty acids provide energy for cell functions and have a structural function, forming an important part of cell membranes. Eicosanoids are involved in immunological and inflammatory responses. Since most rheumatic diseases involve inflammation, altered immune function, and tissue injury, eicosanoids may be important, particularly as they offer treatment with fewer side effects than other current therapies. Both the precursor fatty acids as well as the eicosanoids derived from them may be important in anti-inflammatory effects of essential fatty acid administration. Deficiencies of fatty acids can also reduce the severity of inflammation in experimental diseases. Platelet production of thromboxanes and prostaglandins has been one target of fatty acid therapy, particularly by use of fish oil supplements. These have been moderately helpful in rheumatoid arthritis, but adverse effects are possible, and such therapy needs more study before it can be widely used. Fatty acids obtained from botanical sources such as evening primrose and forage plants also appear beneficial. Eczema has benefited from fatty acids in primrose seed oil. Structural roles of essential fatty acids may underlie their beneficial effects on immune cells such as T lymphocytes. Further research is needed to determine which forms of fatty acid treatment, if any, are useful in rheumatoid arthritis and whether long-term therapy with fatty acids is associated with adverse effects. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4967
Year: 1991
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Novoseven for non-hemophilia hemostasis
Article Abstract:
Novoseven is used for treatment of bleeding episodes in hemophilia patients with inhibitors to factor 7 or 9, and is used to stop bleeding in patients who do not have hemophilia. It is concluded that it is marked for treatment of hemophilia and might prove to be safe and effective when used as a general hemostatic agent.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 2004
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