Fish oil and protein combo tested for COPD muscle loss

NCT ID NCT01624792

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Texas A&M University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether taking fish oil supplements (containing EPA and DHA) along with a protein drink could help people with COPD build muscle. Sixty-four participants took either fish oil or a placebo for four weeks. Researchers measured muscle protein synthesis to see if the combination improved muscle building.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Fish oil (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid) and protein (casein)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a nutritional strategy to help COPD patients maintain or gain muscle mass.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 64 participants. The results may not apply to all COPD patients, and the effect on muscle mass may be minimal.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease muscular atrophy

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE MUSCLE WASTING

Contacts and locations

Locations

Texas A&M University

College Station, Texas, 77843, United States

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