Vascepa overview
BRAND NAMES:
Vascepa
Generic Names:
Icosapent Ethyl
Uses:
Used together with a statin medicine to lower risk of heart attack, stroke, and other heart problems. Also used together with diet, exercise, and weight loss to help control triglyceride levels.
Therapeutic Classes:
Antihyperlipidemic
Forms:
Liquid Filled Capsule
How it’s taken:
By mouth
What is Vascepa used for?
What form(s) does Vascepa come in
Liquid Filled Capsule
What are common Vascepa doses?
Capsule 0.5GM
Capsule 1GM
Common Vascepa prescriptions
Vascepa
0.5gm capsuleVascepa
1gm capsule
How to take Vascepa
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Oral routeIt is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, break, chew, dissolve, or open it.
Oral routeCarefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet.
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Oral routeIt is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Oral routeCarefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, break, chew, dissolve, or open it.
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
What to do if you miss a dose of Vascepa
Oral routeAsk your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Vascepa contraindications
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to icosapent ethyl (an omega-3 fatty acid also known as EPA).
Vascepa warnings
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
This medicine may cause the following problems:Increase risk of heart rhythm problemsIncrease risk of bleeding
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, diabetes, heart rhythm problems, pancreas problems, or an underactive thyroid. Tell your doctor if are allergic to fish or shellfish, or if you drink alcohol.
Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.
Vascepa interactions
Some medicines can affect how icosapent ethyl works. Tell your doctor if you are also using aspirin, clopidogrel, or a blood thinner (including warfarin).
Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.
Vascepa side effects
Serious Side Effects
Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat
Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
Swelling of the hands, legs, or feet
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Less Serious Side Effects
Joint or muscle pain
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