DHA For The Treatment of Pediatric Concussion Related to Sports Injury
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2017-08-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
In recent years, media attention has focused on the long-term sequelae of repeated concussive
episodes in professional athletes. The growing understanding of the damage done by what was
once considered a "ding" during a game or match, and the neurologic consequences of "playing
through" or returning to play too soon has led to additional interest in and concern for
pediatric athletes (18 or under) who experience sports-related concussions during game or
practice play.
Because it has only been in recent years that the full scope of damage done by repeated
concussive episodes has come to light, very little research has been done on treatment of
concussion in either adults or children. Brain injuries in children can be especially
problematic, as the brain may continue to develop until the child reaches the age of 24 or
older, so concussion during this time of development may be particularly damaging.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid commonly found in both fish oils and
algae. DHA is known to improve development of the eyes and brain in young children. It is
thought to be an effective anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant, and since it occurs naturally
and causes very few harmful side effects, it may be a useful compound in the treatment of
pediatric concussion.
This is a feasibility trial of DHA for the treatment of sports concussion in a pediatric
population. The investigators' primary aim is to determine acceptability of randomization for
this compound as well as rate of enrollment given our clinical population. The investigators'
secondary aim is to examine preliminary outcomes. The investigators hypothesize that subjects
who take 2 g of DHA daily for 3 months will see a shorter time to full recovery and return to
play and a shorter time to resolve balance disturbance. These are good, albeit unvalidated,
clinical indicators of concussive recovery.
Phase:
Phase 1
Details
Lead Sponsor:
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Collaborators:
Children's Medical Center Dallas Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children