What You Need To Know About Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl)
What is Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) used for?
Vascepa (generic name: Icosapent Ethyl) is a prescription medication used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in adults with elevated triglyceride levels. It is specifically indicated for patients with triglyceride levels of 150 mg/dL or higher who are already on statin therapy for cholesterol management.
How Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) works
Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) is derived from eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil. Unlike over-the-counter fish oil supplements, Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) is highly purified and specifically formulated to provide a therapeutic dose of EPA without significant amounts of other fatty acids.
The primary mechanism of action for Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) involves lowering triglyceride levels and reducing inflammation. It has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other major cardiovascular events.
Common Side Effects of Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl)
Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) offers a myriad of benefits for controlling triglyceride levels in the blood. Despite its benefits, it has several side effects to be aware of before taking it.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms, are getting worse, or are not going away:
Common Side Effects
- Muscle or bone pain
- Swelling of the arms or legs
- Gout
- Constipation
- Mouth or throat pain
- Joint pain
- Mild allergic reaction
Serious Side Effects
How to Take Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl)
To ensure the safe and effective use of Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl), it is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the guidelines on the Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) prescription label.
Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) is available as a 500-mg and 1000-mg amber-colored, liquid-filled soft gel capsule for oral administration.
The usual dose of Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) is 2000 mg (2 g), taken twice daily with food, which means taking 4000 mg (4 g) daily. Depending on the strength prescribed, you may need to take multiple capsules to achieve the correct dose:
- For Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) 500 mg capsules, take four capsules twice daily with food.
- For Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) 1000 mg capsules, take two capsules twice daily with food.
Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) must always be taken with food for optimal absorption while minimizing gastrointestinal side effects. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once to compensate for the missed dose.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the dosage and administration of Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl). Do not adjust your dose or discontinue the medication without consulting your provider.
What You Can Expect
Greater Convenience, Accessibility, and Support
Easy Prescription Transfers
PonteVita Rx offers a seamless way to access your Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) prescription refill anywhere in the country. Whether you’re settling into your new home or exploring the big city, we’re here to provide your Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) Ethyl prescription refill.
Secure Online Portal
You can easily access your Vascepa online prescriptions through our secure portal. Manage your refills, track your orders, and communicate with our healthcare team anytime throughout your term of service.
If we cannot treat you, we do not charge you.
Next Steps
Follow these three simple steps to get your prescription refill:
What Are Medication Alternatives to Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl)?
While Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) is an effective option for lowering high triglyceride levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events, your healthcare provider might consider several alternative medications based on your specific health requirements and medical history.
- Lovaza (Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Esters) - a prescription fish oil medication used to lower very high triglyceride levels. It contains a combination of EPA and DHA, which are types of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Epanova (Omega-3-Carboxylic Acids) - another prescription omega-3 fatty acid medication that helps to reduce high triglyceride levels. This medication provides a combination of EPA and DHA and is taken as 2 grams or 4 grams once daily.
- Fenofibrate (Tricor, Lipofen) - a fibrate medication that helps to lower triglyceride levels and increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
- Gemfibrozil (Lopid) - used to lower triglycerides and increase HDL cholesterol. It is often prescribed when lifestyle changes and other medications are insufficient.
- Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) - a B vitamin that, in higher doses, can help lower triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol while raising HDL cholesterol.
- Omega-3 Supplements - Over-the-counter omega-3 supplements can provide a non-prescription alternative for patients looking to increase their intake of EPA and DHA.
Discuss your condition with your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option. They will consider your overall health, existing medical conditions, and potential interactions with your current medications before recommending an alternative to your Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) prescription.
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Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) FAQs
Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) begins to lower triglyceride levels within a few weeks of starting the medication. However, significant improvements in triglyceride levels and cardiovascular health may take a few months to become evident. It’s important to continue taking Vascepa as prescribed and have regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress.
How to Get Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) in 3 Simple Steps
Begin your treatment plan in three easy steps:
Manage Your Cardiovascular Health With Ease
Maintaining heart health is crucial, and with PonteVita Rx's Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) prescription online refill service, you can do so without interruption. Our platform ensures you never miss a dose, providing a seamless experience for managing your prescriptions.
If we cannot treat you, we do not charge you.