The usefulness of polyunsaturated fatty acids on inflammatory, cardiovascular, and the nervous system was studied in the last decades, but the mechanisms underlying their benefic properties are still partially unknown. These agents seem to express their action on the membrane phospholipid composition and permeability and modulation of second messenger cascades. In psychiatry, the efficacy and tolerability of omega-3 fatty acids were investigated in several psychiatric disorders, including major depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, high-risk conditions to develop psychosis, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and autism spectrum disorders. Initial findings in this field are promising, and some relevant questions need to be addressed. In particular, the effects of these agents on the main symptom dimensions have to be investigated in a trans-diagnostic perspective. The present systematic review is aimed to examine the available data on the efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids on domains of psychotic symptoms, affective symptoms, impulsivity, and aggressiveness, and harmful behaviors, and suicide risk.

Current and emerging medications for borderline personality disorder: is pharmacotherapy alone enough? Highlights  Many psychotropic agents have been tested for the treatment of BPD symptom domains.  In most cases, the studies are open-label trials or affected by severe limitations. There is little evidence of efficacy.  Evidence supports the use of mood stabilizers, second-generation antipsychotics, and omega-3 fatty acids to treat BPD.  Combining drugs with psychotherapy demonstrates better results than single therapies on several core symptoms of BPD.  Data on the tolerability of psychotropic agents in BPD are scarce. Specific examinations of each drug's adverse effects are needed.

No abstract

No abstract