Supplementation with omega-3 or vitamin D may be useful for preventing and treating pain in patients with SCD. One study assessed the effects of supplementation in conjunction with standard therapy.
A common clinical feature present in sickle cell disease (SCD) is pain caused by the distortion of red blood cells and the subsequent blocking of microcirculation. Painful crises are generally managed through both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment methods.
Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin D may have a positive influence on laboratory parameters and pain. Omega-3fatty acids affect the way blood flows and the aggregation and deformation of RBCs. It also reduces the effect of hemolysis on RBCs, promotes anti-inflammatory effects, and decreases leukocytosis. Vitamin D works as an antioxidant to slow down the hemolysis process. It also increases the anti-inflammatory activity of cytokines.
In a 150-patient trial, researchers compared omega-3 or vitamin-D supplementation to standard therapy (hydroxyurea + Ibuprofen) for managing pain crises in pediatric patients with SCD. Compared to the control group, the omega-3 group had a significant increase in serum lipid indicators and a significantly lower number of painful crises and pain levels. Vitamin D was also more effective than standard therapy alone. Omega-3 was more effective than vitamin-D or standard treatment alone relative to pain crises and most of the other studied items.
Healthcare providers are encouraged to consider adding omega-3 supplements to standard therapy and de-escalation strategies for lowering the dose of hydroxyurea. Since omega-3 and vitamin D supplements are relatively affordable, many SCD patients may be able to add them to their standard treatment, as these supplements might allow for lower doses of hydroxyurea and reduce the side effects of standard therapies.
Source
Abdelhalim, S. M., Murphy, J. E., Meabed, M. H., Elberry, A. A., Gamaleldin, M. M., Shaalan, M. S., & Hussein, R. R. S. (2022). Comparative effectiveness of adding Omega-3 or Vitamin D to standard therapy in preventing and treating episodes of painful crisis in pediatric sickle cell patients. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci, 26(14), 5043-5052. doi:10.26355/eurrev_202207_29290
