FIRST PHARMA

Study shows DHA1 improves memory in mild cognitive impairment


Objective:
To determine if docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) safely improves cognitive function in Malay and Chinese people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) associated with age.

Study 1 Design:
   * Randomized, double-blind, placebocontrolled clinical trial
   * 36 low-socioeconomic-status elderly Malay and Chinese subjects with MCI (mean age 66.4 yrs +/- 5. yrs in the DHA1 group and 63.5 +/- 3 yrs in the placebo group)
   * Took the took 1.3 g DHA1 + 0.45 g EPA2 daily or a corn oil placebo for 12 months.

Study 1 Assessments:
Before and after treatment all participants were assessed for brain function and overall health using a variety tests as follows:
   * Primary endpoints
      - Memory
      - Executive function and attention
      - Psychomotor speed
      - Visiospatial skills
      - Depression
      - Dementia and Global Cognitive function

   * Secondary endpoints
      - Safety and tolerability

   * The active DHA1 product provided was the high DHA1 oil that is the lead active ingredient in Efalex Active 50+ and Efalex Concentrate.

Conclusion
DHA1 supplementation significantly improved memory function in people with mild cognitive impairment associated with age.

*
This was the first study specifically designed to measure cognitive improvements (rather than prevention of decline) in people with mild cognitive impairment.

FOOT NOTES
1. DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) an important Omega-3 nutrient that contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function and normal vision. EPA and DHA also contribute to the normal function of the heart.
2. EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) an important Omega-3 fatty acid required for a number of functions in the body that regulate all responses together with other LCPUFAs3. EPA and DHA also contribute to the normal function of the heart. 
3. LCPUFAs (Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids)