Icosapent Ethyl

Vascepa

Vascepa is a brand-name drug available only with a doctor’s prescription. The Food & Drug Administration, or FDA, approved this drug for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia (elevated levels of triglyceride in the blood). Triglycerides are a kind of fat that flows through the blood. Patients can use this medication with statin drugs to minimize the risk of cardiovascular problems in adults with elevated triglyceride levels and heart disease or diabetes, along with two or more risk factors for heart problems, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obesity. It is important to remember that Vascepa is just a part of complete treatment; you need to incorporate a proper diet and exercise with it for effective results. For those looking to purchase this medication conveniently, you can buy Vascepa online through reputable platforms after consulting your healthcare provider.

Product Overview

Vascepa, a prescription medication, contains Icosapent Ethyl, a highly purified omega-3 fatty acid derived from fish oil. It is specifically designed to lower triglyceride levels in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia. This medication is FDA-approved and offers a distinctive approach to managing high triglyceride levels without significantly affecting LDL cholesterol levels. As a prescription drug, it is essential to use Vascepa under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Vascepa is available in the form of 0.5 and 1-gram capsules. The recommended dosage is typically 4 grams taken twice daily with food, but a healthcare provider should determine the exact dosage. Suitable for adults, this medication works by minimizing the production of triglycerides in the liver and enhancing their clearance from the bloodstream, thereby lowering overall triglyceride levels.

Like every other medicine, Vascepa also has specific side effects, which include joint pain and sore throat. Patients should be cautious of potential allergic reactions, and it is advisable to inform the medical provider of any known allergies. In case you have missed a dose of Vascepa, take the medication as soon as possible unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to catch up. In the event of an overdose, get medical attention immediately. Store Vascepa at room temperature in its original container and keep it out of reach of children. For added convenience, you can buy Vascepa online from trusted pharmacies, but make sure to have a valid prescription. Always follow the prescribed instructions and consult with a medical provider for any concerns or questions regarding the use of Vascepa.  

What Are the Uses of Vascepa?

It is used for:

• Lowering High Triglyceride Levels: Triglycerides are fat that flows to the blood. When these fat levels are high, they narrow and harden the arteries. So, Vascepa reduces triglyceride blood levels in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia. The American Heart Association advises omega-3 fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, to reduce hypertriglyceridemia, and Vascepa is a type of EPA.
• Lowering the Risk of Certain Cardiovascular Problems: This medication also reduces the chances of developing certain heart problems in adults with high triglyceride levels. Reduced triglyceride levels also prevent patients from cardiovascular problems like heart attack, stroke, unstable angina, and coronary revascularization (heart bypass surgery). 

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Vascepa?

Vascepa comes in the form of an oral capsule with two strengths:

• 0.5g, and 
• 1g

What Are the Recommended Dosage of Vascepa?

The dosage recommendations for Vascepa depend on several factors. This includes the dosage form you take, the severity of your medical condition, and body weight. Typically, an expert practitioner prescribes a starting dose and gradually adjusts the doses of the medication as needed. It is important to note that these dosage recommendations are only the average dose. So, if you have been prescribed a different dose, do not change it without consulting your medical practitioner.   

Dosage for Lowering Very High Triglyceride Levels

The usual dose of Vascepa for this condition is 4 g each day. Your medical practitioner may prescribe you take:

• Four 0.5 g capsules twice daily with food or
• Two 1 g capsules twice daily with food.

Dosage For Reducing the Risk of Certain Cardiovascular Problems

The usual dose of Vascepa for this condition is 4 g each day. Your medical practitioner may prescribe you take:

• Four 0.5 g capsules twice daily with food or
• Two 1 g capsules twice daily with food.

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How to Use Vascepa?

• Please thoroughly read your medication guide or patient information leaflet, which is provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Follow the instructions exactly mentioned on the prescription label, and do not change the doses without consulting a professional.
• Take the medication by mouth with food or as your doctor prescribes.
• Take the capsules twice a day during or after your meal.
• Swallow the medication as a whole with a glass of water unless directed otherwise.
• Avoid breaking, chewing, splitting, opening, or crushing the capsule. Doing so will release the drug at once.
• If you are unable to swallow the medication, talk to an expert practitioner. They will suggest alternate options suiting your body’s needs.
• Do not take more or fewer Vascepa capsules. Altering the dosage recommendations can cause serious complications.
• For complete treatment, you have to include diet, exercise, and weight control, as Vascepa is only a part of the treatment. So, follow your diet, exercise, and medication routine exactly as it is prescribed.
• During your treatment with this medication, you will need to take frequent blood tests.
• Do not abruptly stop using Vascepa capsules without consulting your medical practitioner. Doing so will cause serious complications in the near future.
• Take your medication at the same time regularly to get the most benefit out of it.

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Vascepa Work?

Vascepa is used to reduce extremely high triglyceride levels. When these levels are high, it causes your arteries to narrow and harden. While this may not show any symptoms, it can raise the chances of cardiovascular problems like stroke and heart attack in patients. To prevent such conditions, doctors recommend Vascepa, a lipid (fat) controlling drug that reduces high triglyceride levels. This medication works by restricting the liver from making fat and releasing it into the blood. 

By minimizing high triglyceride levels in the blood, Vascepa prevents arterial stenosis and hardening, thus reducing the risk of heart problems. This medication also minimizes the likelihood of cardiovascular problems by inhibiting platelets from clumping together. As a result, it prevents heart attacks or strokes in patients.   

Important Safety Information for Using Vascepa

What Are the Side Effects of Vascepa?

Common Side Effects of Vascepa: This medication may lead to certain reactions if not taken properly. These side effects are usually temporary, lasting for a few days to weeks. However, if these effects last more than the mentioned time or get intense, reach out to a medical professional immediately. Common side effects of Vascepa may include:  

• Swelling on the legs, ankles, hands, or feet: Swelling, also known as edema, can occur due to fluid retention in the body’s tissues. Vascepa may cause mild swelling as a side effect, possibly related to its impact on lipid metabolism or circulation. This swelling is typically more noticeable in the extremities, such as the legs, ankles, hands, or feet.

• Constipation: Vascepa may affect the digestive system, leading to slower bowel movements. This can result in constipation, which might manifest as difficulty passing stool, infrequent bowel movements, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation.

• Pain in the throat, joints, bones, or muscles: Throat pain could be due to irritation or inflammation of the throat tissues. Joint, bone, or muscle pain may arise as a general inflammatory response or as a side effect linked to how Vascepa interacts with the body’s inflammatory pathways while managing triglyceride levels.

• Gout (type of arthritis that causes extreme pain in the big toe): Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to intense pain and swelling, often in the big toe. While not directly caused by Vascepa, its effects on lipid levels might contribute to changes in uric acid metabolism, triggering or worsening gout in susceptible individuals.
• Racing heartbeats: Palpitations, or a sensation of racing heartbeats, can occur as a result of Vascepa’s influence on cardiovascular function. Although Vascepa is intended to improve heart health by lowering triglycerides, it may occasionally cause changes in heart rhythm, leading to noticeable palpitations.

Serious Side Effects of Vascepa: Vascepa can cause more than common reactions. It can also result in adverse side effects that can be fatal or cause complications in the future. While the list below does not include all possible adverse reactions, you need to be mindful of any signs that seem serious. Serious side effects of Vascepa may include:

• Bleeding: Vascepa can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in individuals taking anticoagulants (blood thinners) or antiplatelet medications. This is because omega-3 fatty acids can have a mild blood-thinning effect, potentially leading to prolonged bleeding from minor injuries or unexpected bleeding events, such as nosebleeds or gastrointestinal bleeding.

• Irregular heart rhythm: Vascepa may increase the risk of atrial fibrillation (an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm). This condition can lead to palpitations, fatigue, or dizziness. It is more likely to occur in patients with pre-existing heart conditions.

• Allergic reactions. Its signs may include:

• Hives: Red, itchy welts that appear on the skin.

• Difficulty breathing: Caused by swelling in the airways.

• Swelling on the lips, tongue, face, or throat: In areas like the lips, tongue, face, or throat, which can lead to life-threatening conditions such as anaphylaxis.

• Eye problems. Its symptoms are:

• Sudden vision loss: This could indicate a serious underlying issue and requires urgent evaluation.

• Eye pain/swelling: Signs of inflammation or increased pressure in the eye.

• Blurred vision or seeing halos around lights: These symptoms may suggest fluid buildup or damage to the retina or optic nerve.

• Heart problems. Signs may include:

• Fast or irregular heartbeats:  Indicates disturbances in the heart’s electrical system.

• Chest fluttering: A sensation of rapid, irregular beats.

• Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting: Symptoms of inadequate blood flow to the brain, often caused by heart rhythm problems.

• Chest pressure, breath shortness: May signal angina or heart attack.

• Neurological Symptoms

• Extreme headache: Sudden and intense headaches can signal a vascular problem. 

• Confusion and slurred speech: Could suggest impaired brain function, often due to a lack of oxygen or blood flow.

• Difficulty walking, loss of coordination, weakness, or unsteadiness: Signs of potential stroke or nerve damage.

• Muscle stiffness: This can occur due to increased inflammation or as a reaction to Vascepa. Severe stiffness accompanied by other symptoms like fever may indicate a serious condition such as rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown).
• High fever and excessive sweating: These symptoms may occur due to an infection or an adverse systemic reaction to the medication. They should be evaluated promptly to rule out serious complications.

[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Vascepa?

Vascepa can cause severe side effects in certain patients, or it may not be a suitable treatment option for specific populations due to their medical conditions. So, if you are using this medication, you should remain cautious as it has several warnings, which are as follows:

• Bleeding: Patients taking Vascepa treatment have reported incidences of bleeding. If you are using this medication in combination with antithrombotic agents, such as aspirin/anticoagulants, consult with a medical professional as you are at high risk of bleeding. 
• Atrial Fibrillation: Vascepa may cause atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter (irregular or rapid heart rhythm), requiring hospitalization. The study shows that among 8,179 people taking statins and who either had heart disease or diabetes with another risk factor for heart disease, those treated with Vascepa had a higher chance of developing atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter that required at least 24 hours of hospitalization. If you have a history of such a condition, talk to a medical practitioner.
• Allergic Reaction in Patients with Fish Allergy: Vascepa includes ethyl esters of the omega-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, which is derived from fish oil. It is unclear if people with fish or shellfish allergies have a higher risk of reacting to Vascepa. Patients with known fish or shellfish allergies should be informed about the possibility of allergic reactions to this medication, stop taking it & seek medical help if any allergic reactions occur.

What Are the FDA Boxed Warning for Vascepa?

Boxed warnings, also known by the term black box warnings, are among the most strict warnings. These guidelines are issued by the FDA or Food and Drug Administration for a particular drug to alert patients and doctors about the harmful effects of the mentioned medication. However, Vascepa does not have such boxed warnings from the FDA, meaning it is safe for use in patients with high triglyceride levels as long as they are taking all precautions while taking this medication.  Follow the instructions provided by your medical practitioner. If you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, it’s best to consult with an expert.

What Are the Vascepa Precautions?

When considering treatment with Vascepa, patients should discuss every risk and benefit with their medical practitioner. Here are some of the precautions that you can take before using Vascepa for elevated triglyceride levels:

• Before starting your treatment with this medication, make sure that you are not allergic to Vascepa, its active ingredient, Icosapent Ethyl, or any of the ingredients present in the formulation of the medication. The product may contain certain inactive components that can cause severe allergic reactions. You can ask your pharmacist about the ingredients of the product. 
• If you are undergoing surgery or any medical procedure, tell your physician, surgeon, or dentist about the products you use. This includes every prescription medication, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products.
• Before considering using this medication, inform your doctor about your and your family’s medical history, especially of:
  • Liver problems
  • Diabetes
  • Thyroid disorder
  • Pancreas problems
  • Bleeding or blood-clotting disorders
• Overlooking this information may lead to severe complications in the future. 
• Vascepa is just a part of the treatment program, so incorporate diet, exercise, and weight control into your treatment. Follow the instructions of your healthcare practitioner carefully for effective results.
• Avoid sharing your medication with other individuals, even if they share the same condition. Doing so may harm them as different individuals have different body needs and medical conditions.
• It is unclear whether the drug affects the unborn baby or not. To avoid any complications in your pregnancy, talk to a healthcare professional beforehand. Discuss every risk and benefit with them. They will suggest if you should take the medication or not during your pregnancy or if you are planning to get pregnant. 
• Icosapent Ethyl may pass into your breast milk and cause harm to the baby. Therefore, it is important to consult with a medical practitioner before you breastfeed your child. Your physician will advise if you should continue using this medication while breastfeeding or not.
• Vascepa may worsen your liver problem. If you have a history of liver problems or active liver issues, you should consult your healthcare practitioner. They will check your liver function frequently during your treatment with Vascepa.

What Are the Contraindications of Vascepa?

It is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity reactions to the medication or any of the ingredients used in the product’s formulation, including any non-medicinal component.

What If You Missed a Dose of Vascepa?

Generally, it is advisable not to miss any doses of Vascepa, but if someone forgets, they can:

• Take the capsules as soon as possible or whenever they remember.
• If it is almost time for the next dose, you may omit the missed dose and follow your regular dosing schedule as your doctor instructed.
• Remember not to take double doses of your prescribed medication just for the sake of making up for the missed dose. This may cause adverse side effects.
• Use medication apps or set reminders on your phone to avoid skipping any doses.
• Take each dose at the same time every day to get the most benefit out of it.
• Use a pill box and organize your capsules on a weekly basis to avoid skipping doses.
• If you are still unsure about the missed doses, talk to an expert physician. They will guide you and suggest alternate options.  

[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much of Vascepa?

While patients are educated enough to know the complications of overdose, there are times when they mistakenly take an excessive amount of Vascepa capsules. In such cases, patients are advised not to panic and instead look for unusual signs like:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Trouble breathing
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Passing out

If you are experiencing such overdose symptoms, visit the nearest clinic or get medical assistance immediately by calling 911.  

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How to Store a Vascepa?

• Store the capsules at a controlled room temperature within 20 to 25°C or 68 to 77°F.
• Keep your medication in a tightly closed container, away from light and moisture.
• Place a safety lock on your medication container to avoid poisoning your child or pet, as there are many products on the market that are not child-resistant.
• Keep the capsules out of reach and sight of your children and pets.
• Do not keep the medication in moist or damp areas like the bathroom or near the sink.
• Avoid flushing the medication down the toilet.
• Discard the product when it is not in use.
• Do not keep your medication under direct sunlight.
• Avoid storing your capsules on the window sill or in the car, as heat and dampness can damage the medication. 
• Use the capsule immediately after taking it out from the packaging.
• Do not use the medication once its expiration date has passed. The expiration date is the last day of the month mentioned on the back of the prescription label or carton.
• You should dispose of the medications in such a way that children and animals cannot consume them, as it may cause accidental overdose and death if someone else consumes them.
• The best way to eliminate unwanted medications is to give them in the medicine take-back program.
• Ask a medical professional or pharmacist how to dispose of the medication properly without damaging the environment.

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Medications Interact with Vascepa?

Drug interactions occur when one or more medications are taken simultaneously. These interactions can either raise the risk of developing side effects in certain patients or affect the functioning of one of the drugs. Either way, it results in adverse reactions. Therefore, patients need to be aware of the drugs that may interact with their Vascepa medication. Below are some of the drugs that can interact with Vascepa:

• • Antiplatelet Drugs: These drugs help in preventing blood clots from forming in the blood vessels. Co-administration of Vascepa and antiplatelet drugs increases the chances of bleeding. Its examples are:
    • Prasugrel (Effient)
    • Ticagrelor (Brilinta)
    • Aspirin
    • Clopidogrel (Plavix)
  • Blood Thinners: It belongs to a category that is used in the treatment and prevention of blood clots. Its examples are as follows:
    • Enoxaparin (Lovenox)
    • Rivaroxaban (Xarelto)
    • Warfarin (Jantoven)
    • Apixaban (Eliquis)
    • Dabigatran (Pradaxa)

• Others Drugs: 

• • Abciximab
  • Alteplase
  • Betrixaban
  • Bivalirudin
  • Bromfenac
  • Cangrelor
  • Caplacizumab
  • Cilostazol
  • Dalteparin
  • Danaparoid
  • Defibrotide
  • Edoxaban
  • Epoprostenol
  • Fedratinib
  • Fenoprofen
  • Flurbiprofen
  • Heparin
  • Ibuprofen
  • Iloprost
  • Indomethacin
  • Ketoprofen
  • Ketorolac
  • Lepirudin
  • Meclofenamate
  • Mefenamic acid
  • Meloxicam
  • Nabumetone
  • Naproxen
  • Oxaprozin
  • Pentoxifylline
  • Phenylbutazone
  • Piroxicam
  • Reteplase

What Are the Other Vascepa Interactions?

Besides drug interactions, Vascepa has disease interactions too, which are as follows:

• Atrial fibrillation/flutter
• Liver disease

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Vascepa. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are the Vascepa Alternatives?

People usually take alternative drugs for many reasons. In some cases, the prescribed medication may not be an ideal option for them due to their medical conditions. On the other hand, they may not achieve the results they are aiming for. Therefore, you should talk to a medical professional before you start a particular treatment or if you want to change your medication. They may help you decide which medication is best suited for you. Some of the alternatives to Vascepa are as follows:

• Fenofibrate
• Lovaza (omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids)
• Tricor
• Rosuvastatin
• Lipofen
• Crestor
• Trilipix

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

Vascepa Cost & Coupons

It is important to note that Vascepa’s cost is not the same everywhere. The actual price of these capsules depends on several factors, including your insurance plan, location, and the pharmacies you use. Vascepa, with its therapeutic qualities, can be expensive for certain patients. Here, insurance coverage plays a significant role. You can buy your medication at affordable rates with an insurance coverage plan. However, not all drugs/medications are covered under the insurance plan. If you are residing in America and searching for affordable pharmacies to manage your medication’s cost, Vascepa coupon card by Polar Bear Meds can be of great help. Here you can buy Vascepa online from Canada in the USA at discounted rates. Moreover, first-time buyers can use the discount coupon for Vascepa by using the code WELCOMEPB10 to receive a 10% discount on their first order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to take a statin along with Vascepa?

It is often recommended to take Vascepa along with a statin if you have high triglycerides and other risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This combination helps to further lower your risk of heart problems. However, always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on whether you need to take both medications based on your specific health condition. Your medical professional will assess your health needs to determine the best treatment plan.

What happens if I take Vascepa without food?

Taking Vascepa without food may reduce its effectiveness. Vascepa is designed to be taken with meals to enhance its absorption & maximize its benefits in lowering triglyceride levels. Always follow the prescribed instructions and take Vascepa with food to ensure you receive the full therapeutic effects of the medication. If you forget to take it with a meal, try to take your next dose with food to maintain consistency.

Is Vascepa a blood thinner?

Vascepa is not classified as a blood thinner, but it may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you are taking other medications that affect blood clotting. It primarily works by lowering triglyceride levels. If you are on blood-thinning medications, inform your healthcare provider to manage any potential interactions or side effects. Regular monitoring & communication with your healthcare provider are essential to safely use Vascepa alongside other medications.

Why is Vascepa an expensive medication?

Vascepa is an expensive medication due to the extensive research, development, and rigorous manufacturing processes involved in producing its highly purified omega-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Additionally, the costs associated with its FDA approval and clinical trials contribute to its price. Insurance coverage and patient assistance programs may help reduce out-of-pocket costs. Consult with your medical provider or pharmacist about financial assistance options to help manage Vascepa’s expenses.

Is Vascepa the same as fish oil?

Vascepa is not the same as regular fish oil supplements. It contains highly purified eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid specifically formulated and approved by the FDA to lower triglyceride levels in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia. Regular fish oil supplements contain a mix of various omega-3 fatty acids and are not regulated for the same medical purposes. Vascepa undergoes strict quality control and clinical testing to ensure its efficacy and safety for medical use.

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