Researchers Need Your Help to Find Out
Living with dermatomyositis (DM) means facing challenges that can affect muscles, skin, energy levels, and overall quality of life. While current treatments can help manage the disease, researchers continue to look for safe, effective ways to reduce disease activity and improve daily functioning.
A new clinical trial at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is exploring whether omega-3 fatty acid supplements, commonly known as fish oil, may offer additional benefits for people living with dermatomyositis.
The Fatty Acid Supplementation Trial (FAST) for Dermatomyositis is evaluating whether omega-3 fatty acid (O3FA) supplementation can reduce disease activity and improve quality of life in people with mild to moderately active dermatomyositis and juvenile dermatomyositis. Researchers also want to understand how combining omega-3 supplements with a healthy diet may affect disease outcomes.
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, and investigators believe they may help decrease dermatomyositis disease activity and improve muscle strength.
The study protocol has recently been changed to increase eligibility and participation. Call to see if you qualify: 1-800-411-1222.
Who Can Participate?
You may be eligible if you:
- Are between 18 and 60 years old.
- Have mild to moderately active dermatomyositis or juvenile dermatomyositis.
- Can read English and access the internet to complete questionnaires.
- Live in the United States.
What Does Participation Involve?
Participants will:
- Take fish oil or placebo capsules twice daily for 24 weeks. An optional 12-week open-label extension may also be offered.
- Follow a generally healthy diet and periodically report foods consumed.
- Attend four in-person visits over a nine-month period at the NIH Clinical Center, along with two telehealth visits.
- Provide blood, urine, and stool samples.
- Undergo MRI and other imaging studies.
- Receive dietary education and coaching.
Wear a watch-like device that tracks activity levels and sleep patterns.
What Are the Benefits of Participating?
Participants may receive:
- Up to $800 in compensation.
- Healthcare evaluations and testing at no cost.
- Dietary coaching.
- Study medication provided at no cost.
In addition to contributing to important research, volunteers help advance knowledge that could benefit the entire myositis community.
Led by Experienced Myositis Researchers
The study is led by former TMA Medical Advisory Lisa Rider, MD, a pediatric rheumatologist and internationally recognized expert in juvenile myositis, along with TMA Medical Advisory Adam I. Schiffenbauer, MD, an adult rheumatologist with extensive expertise in myositis. Both are members of the Environmental Autoimmunity Group at NIEHS and have dedicated their careers to understanding and improving outcomes for people affected by myositis.
If you or someone you know may be interested in participating, visit the study website: https://joinastudy.niehs.nih.gov/studies/fast-dermatomyositis
You can also contact the study team directly:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 1-800-411-1222
Clinical trials are only possible because of volunteers who choose to participate. By joining studies like FAST for DM, patients help researchers move closer to better treatments and a brighter future for everyone living with myositis.
To learn more about this clinical trial, watch this recorded webinar with the research team.
