Phosphatidylserine containing omega-3 fatty acids may improve memory abilities in non-demented elderly with memory complaints: a double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

Phosphatidylserine (PS) may have beneficial effects on cognitive functions. We evaluated the efficacy of a novel preparation of PS containing omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids attached to its backbone (PS-DHA) in non-demented elderly with memory complaints.

METHODS

157 participants were randomized to receive either PS-DHA or placebo for 15 weeks. Efficacy measures, assessed at baseline and endpoint, included the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test, Rey Complex Figure Test, and a computerized cognitive battery. Clinicians' Global Impression of Change was assessed following 7 and 15 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

131 participants completed the study although 9 were excluded from the efficacy analysis due to protocol violation. At endpoint, verbal immediate recall was significantly improved in the PS-DHA group compared to the placebo group. Post-hoc analysis revealed that a subset of participants with relatively good cognitive performance at baseline had significant treatment-associated improvements in immediate and delayed verbal recall, learning abilities, and time to copy complex figure. These favorable results were further supported by responder analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that PS-DHA may improve cognitive performance in non-demented elderly with memory complaints. Post-hoc analysis of subgroups suggests that participants with higher baseline cognitive status were most likely to respond to PS-DHA. The results of this exploratory study should be followed up by additional studies aimed at confirming the present tentative conclusions.