Efficacy of gamma-linolenic acid in the treatment of patients with atopic dermatitis

• Published in: Journal of international medical research Vol. 25; no. 5; p. 266
• Main Authors: Andreassi, M, Forleo, P, Di Lorio, A, Masci, S, Abate, G, Amerio, P
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01-09-1997
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Dermatitis, Atopic - complications; Dermatitis, Atopic - drug therapy; Female; gamma-Linolenic Acid - adverse effects; gamma-Linolenic Acid - therapeutic use; Humans; Male; Placebos; Pruritus - etiology; Pruritus - pathology; Severity of Illness Index; Time Factors
• ISSN: 0300-0605
• DOI: 10.1177/030006059702500504

Of 60 patients with atopic dermatitis (30 males and 30 females, 15-30 years old) 30 were treated with gamma-linolenic acid of (C18:3 n-6) at a dosage of 274 mg twice a day; the other 30 patients were given placebo. The patients were treated for 12 weeks, during which their symptoms were assessed on a linear scale both by a dermatologist and by themselves every 4 weeks. The patients who received gamma-linolenic acid, showed gradual improvements in pruritus, erythema, vesiculation and oozing, which were statistically significant compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Only one patient had presented with scaling at the beginning of the study and this symptom appeared to be less influenced by the effects of gamma-linolenic acid. The assessments of symptoms made by the dermatologist were generally consistent with those made by the patients themselves. gamma-linolenic acid was found to be effective and without side-effects for the treatment of atopic dermatitis.