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Lipid-modifying agent (purified omega-3 fatty acid, EPA)

Icosapent ethyl: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Vascepa, Vazkepa, purified EPA omega-3.

Diese Informationen dienen ausschließlich der allgemeinen Orientierung und stellen keine medizinische Beratung dar. Konsultieren Sie bei persönlichen gesundheitlichen Anliegen stets eine qualifizierte medizinische Fachkraft. Wählen Sie im Notfall Ihre örtliche Notrufnummer.

What it is used for

  • Lowering very high triglycerides
  • Reducing cardiovascular risk in certain people who already take a statin but still have raised triglycerides and high heart risk

How it works

Icosapent ethyl is a highly purified form of an omega-3 fatty acid (EPA). It lowers triglycerides in the blood and has effects that may help stabilise the arteries, working alongside statin treatment to reduce cardiovascular risk.

How it is taken

Usually supplied as oral capsules, generally taken twice a day with food; capsules are swallowed whole. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and as written on the label, alongside a heart-healthy diet and any statin you have been prescribed.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • A fishy taste or burping
  • Mild tummy upset or diarrhoea
  • Joint or muscle pain
  • Swelling in the hands or feet

Serious effects — get help

  • Irregular or rapid heartbeat (palpitations) - report to your clinician, and seek urgent care if you feel faint or have chest pain
  • Signs of unusual bleeding or bruising (it can slightly increase bleeding risk, especially with blood thinners)
  • Serious allergic reaction: facial or throat swelling, trouble breathing

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Blood thinners and antiplatelets such as warfarin, clopidogrel and aspirin (may add to bleeding risk)
  • Tell your clinician about a shellfish or fish allergy
  • Other medicines that affect bleeding

Who should take care

  • Tell your clinician about any fish or shellfish allergy
  • Report any irregular heartbeat history (atrial fibrillation) - this medicine can slightly raise that risk
  • Mention if you take blood thinners
  • Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with your clinician
  • Keep taking your statin and following dietary advice

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as fish-oil supplements from a shop?
No. Icosapent ethyl is a prescription, highly purified single omega-3 (EPA) studied in clinical trials. Over-the-counter fish oils vary in content and are not the same. Do not substitute one for the other without advice.
Why take it with a statin?
It is used to add cardiovascular protection in people who still have raised triglycerides and high risk despite a statin. The two work together - keep taking both as prescribed.
Can it cause an irregular heartbeat?
There is a small increased chance of an irregular heartbeat such as atrial fibrillation. Report palpitations and seek urgent care if you feel faint or have chest pain.
Will it thin my blood?
It can slightly increase bleeding risk, especially with blood thinners. Tell your clinician about all your medicines and report unusual bleeding.
Is Icosapent ethyl safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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