Vayarin (Phosphatidylserine Omega-3 Fatty Acids) Supplements for ADHD

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid that is an important component of cell membranes, particularly in the brain. Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids known for their health benefits, especially in supporting brain and cardiovascular health. When you combine phosphatidylserine with omega-3 fatty acids, you get a supplement that may offer additional cognitive and overall health benefits.

Omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are often found in fish oil or algae oil supplements. When these fatty acids are incorporated into the phospholipid structure of phosphatidylserine, it can potentially enhance the bioavailability and absorption of omega-3s in the body, especially in the brain.

This combination is believed to support brain health, including memory, cognition, and overall cognitive function. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids themselves have anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits, which can be further enhanced when combined with phosphatidylserine.

Children with ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) are treated with supplements called Vayarin (Phosphatidylserine Containing Omega-3 Fatty Acids). Although the supplement's particular mode of action is unknown, it is believed to raise the brain's amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.

Vayarin (Phosphatidylserine Containing Omega-3 Fatty Acids) Uses:

  • It is used as a medicinal food to treat specific lipid abnormalities linked to childhood ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) by dietary control.

Note:

  • Medical foods, unlike drugs, are not regulated by the FDA regulatory authorities. It does not require an oral or written prescription before dispensing, review or approval prior to marketing, and evidence of their safety and efficacy.
  • Medical foods are designed to be consumed orally in order to treat particular illnesses or disorders for which specific dietary needs have been determined through medical assessment.

Dose in Adults:

Not indicated.   

Vayarin (Phosphatidylserine Containing Omega-3 Fatty Acids) Dose in Children:

Vayarin Dose in the Lipid imbalances associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD):

  • In cases where lipid imbalances are linked to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the typical recommended dosage is to take two capsules by mouth every day.
  • This is the usual amount prescribed to help manage ADHD symptoms associated with lipid imbalances.

Pregnancy Risk Category: C

  • The manufacturer of this combination of supplements hasn't seen any negative effects in animal studies related to pregnancy.
  • However, they advise against using it during pregnancy.
  • This means that even though it hasn't caused harm in animal studies, they suggest not using it when you're pregnant, likely as a precaution because there may be limited data on its safety for pregnant women.

Use during breastfeeding:

  • The manufacturer of this combination supplement is unsure if it passes into breast milk. Therefore, they advise against breastfeeding while using it.
  • This caution is likely due to the uncertainty about its effects on nursing infants.

Dose in kidney disease:

  • The manufacturer's instructions don't include any specific changes in the dosage based on different circumstances.
  • This means that the recommended dosage remains the same for everyone and doesn't need to be adjusted for different situations or conditions.

Dose in Liver disease:

  • The manufacturer's instructions don't include any specific changes in the dosage based on different circumstances.
  • This means that the recommended dosage remains the same for everyone and doesn't need to be adjusted for different situations or conditions.

Side Effects of Vayarin (Phosphatidylserine Containing Omega-3 Fatty Acids):

  • Central nervous system:
    • Outbursts of anger
  • Gastrointestinal:
    • Abdominal pain

Contraindications to Vayarin (Phosphatidylserine Containing Omega-3 Fatty Acids):

  • If someone has experienced severe allergic reactions (like anaphylaxis) to phosphatidylserine, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), or any other ingredient in this supplement, they should avoid using it.
  • This is because they may have a strong allergy to one or more components of the supplement, and taking it could lead to serious allergic reactions.
  • It's essential to be cautious and choose alternative options if you have a known hypersensitivity to these substances.

Monitoring Parameters:

None mentioned.   

How to administer Vayarin?

  • You can take this medication by mouth without worrying about whether you've eaten or not.
  • It's okay to take it with or without food; you don't need to time it with your meals.

Mechanism of action of Vayarin:

  • The precise way this combination works is not completely clear.
  • However, giving phosphatidylserine may lead to higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the central nervous system.
  • While we don't know the exact details of how it happens, it suggests that this combination could potentially benefit the brain and nervous system by increasing these essential fatty acids in that part of the body.

Metabolism:

  • In the body, most of the phosphatidylserine is changed into other phospholipids, mainly phosphatidylethanolamine, in the cells of the intestine. This is part of the metabolism process where the body transforms one type of lipid into another as it's being processed and absorbed in the digestive system.

International Brand Names of Phosphatidylserine:

  • Vayacog
  • Vayarin
  • Medical Food

Phosphatidylserine Brand Names in Pakistan:

Not Available.