Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acid on Cortical Function in ADHD

Docosahexaenoic Acid Augmentation of Cortical Attention Networks in ADHD

The study hypothesis is that DHA is more effective than placebo in increasing brain activation and reducing symptoms in psychostimulant-free children with ADHD.

This study aims to determine the effects of 10-week dietary supplementation with the long-chain omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) or placebo on prefrontal cortical structural and functional connectivity using several neuroimaging techniques: DTI (Diffusion Tensor Imaging), 1H MRS(Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy), and fMRI (Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging) in psychostimulant-free children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is postulated that DHA supplements will increase brain activation and reduce ADHD symptomatology.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Provision of written informed consent/assent
• Ages 5-15 years old
• Meets DSM-IV-TR criteria for ADHD as determined by the KSADS

Exclusion Criteria:

• Contraindication to an MRI scan (i.e., braces, claustrophobia)
• A history of a major medical (e.g., diabetes) or neurological illness (e.g., epilepsy)
• Greater than 1 year outside appropriate age/grade level
• A history of intolerance or hypersensitivity to omega-3 fatty acids
• Currently taking omega-3 supplements
• Not proficient in English language
• Any history of a hematological disorder or concomitant use of anticoagulant medications
• Personal history of an Axis I psychiatric disorder other than ADHD
• Inability to swallow capsules