Effect of Omega 3 Fatty Acids on Oxidative Stress in HIV Seropositive Patients

Introduction: Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has showed its effectiveness in the prevention of complications in seropositive for HIV patients. However, they develop some manifestations such as lipodystrophy, dyslipidemia, and glucose intolerance increasing cardiovascular risk.

Clinical trials in general population and in patients on hemodialysis have demonstrated a significant reduction in cardiovascular events using fish oil. Omega-3 fatty acids are believed to be beneficial in prevention of atherosclerosis reducing lipids levels specially triglycerides. Also in general populations it has been described a benefit effect of omega 3 acids on oxidative stress.

Objective: to know the effect of omega 3 acids on different markers of oxidative stress in seropositive HIV patients.

Methods: We will perform a randomized parallel controlled clinical trial in seropositive HIV patients from 20 to 55 years old on clinical score A1, A2, B1 or B2 who received HAART. They will be randomly assigned to receive omega 3 fatty acids 2.4 g (Zonelabs, Marblehead MA) or placebo for 6 months. At baseline anthropometric measurements, lipid profile, glucose and stress oxidative levels (nitric oxide, malondialdehyde, total glutathion, and lipid peroxidation products) will be evaluated.

Sample size was calculated according to different variables. We selected the biggest one calculated for a difference in nitric oxide of 25% after treatment between groups and a standard deviation (SD) value of 10µmol/L. Whit this information we obtained a sample size of 31 patients per group for an 80% statistical power with α= 0.05. Assuming a 15% patient lost, a sample size of 35 per group was considered.