Ask the Pharmacist

For children with ADHD, which Omegor is recommended?

Good morning, everyone. My son, as a result of perinatal hypoxia, has suffered motor and cognitive developmental delays fortunately not very severe. He is currently 5 years old and I am experiencing fatigue and difficulty with attention, in school and in therapy, which he had not manifested until now. I have read about the positive effects on children with ADHD of omega-3 supplements. Which omegor supplement would be best? Could I have him take it or is it too "late"? Should supplementation have started earlier? Could it have side effects? How soon could I see the first results possibly? I really thank you for any clarification you can give me. With kindest regards.




Dear Mary, 


I recommend that you evaluate with your child's pediatrician VitaDHA 1000, a dietary supplement in capsule form. A rich, concentrated docosahexaenoic acid (DHA Plus) formula derived from purified fish oil and deodorized by multiple molecular distillation. The DHA Plus in VitaDHA 1000 is highly bioavailable because it is in the form of natural triglyceride, a structure easily assimilated by the body. 


Our brains are more than 60 percent fat, and most of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids that are present in our bodies are located in the brain, particularly DHA the main component of the nervous system's cell membranes. Many scientific studies point out that a DHA deficiency in children can be associated with decreased attention, learning abilities and hyperactivity, typical behaviors in ADHD. At this link can read a Spanish study in children aged 6 to 18 years with ADHD with high-DHA supplements.


In addition, omega-3 fatty acids help maintain adequate levels of dopamine; when levels of this neurotransmitter drop you are more likely to be affected by attention disorders, decreased ability to concentrate on immediate tasks, and movement disorders. 


I recommend 2-3 capsules per day of VitaDHA 1000 before a main meal. If your son then cannot swallow the capsules I recommend a viable alternative in liquid form with the same content characteristics, VitaDHA liquid. VitaDHA liquid contains an even purer and more natural fish oil produced by a refining process that preserves as much of the oil's natural form as possible, keeps it stable for longer, and gives it a neutral taste. In addition, lemon flavor has been added to the formulation. I recommend one sachet every other day of liquid VitaDHA before a main meal or it can be added to cold foods such as yogurt or cheese spread. 


In general, supplementation should be continued for at least 2-3 months and can be prolonged without side effects, particularly throughout the school period. I confirm that it is not too late to start supplementation; the first physiological effects can be seen after 1-2 months of regular supplementation. In addition, it is important for the doctor to monitor the situation and any improvements and, if necessary, vary the daily dosage according to the physiological results obtained. 


Sincerely, 


Beatrice Iozzino, pharmacist