Evening Primrose Oil — SCE Dermatology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyInflammatory DermatosesEvening Primrose OilSCE Dermatology

A 30-year-old woman with eczema wants to try complementary therapy. She asks about evening primrose oil (EPO). What does the evidence show?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Current systematic reviews show NO convincing evidence that EPO improves atopic eczema — it is not recommended by BAD or NICE

Despite historical popularity, current systematic review evidence (Cochrane) shows no convincing benefit of evening primrose oil (EPO) or borage oil (containing gamma-linolenic acid/GLA) for atopic eczema. NICE CG57 does not recommend EPO. BAD guidelines do not include EPO in their management recommendations. The theoretical rationale (GLA supplementation correcting a deficiency in delta-6-desaturase enzyme activity) has not been supported by clinical trial outcomes. Patients should be advised that EPO is not an evidence-based treatment and should not replace standard therapy. Other complementary therapies (Chinese herbal medicine, probiotics, homeopathy) also lack robust evidence for eczema.

Reference: NICE CG57; BAD 2020 AD; Cochrane EPO Review