Vascepa is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient icosapent ethyl, which is a type of omega-3 fatty acid. Statins, on the other hand, are a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. While both Vascepa and statins have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events, there are some differences in their benefits.

One of the benefits of Vascepa is that it has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with elevated triglyceride levels, even in those who are already taking statins [1]. In fact, a recent study found that Vascepa reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events by 25% compared to placebo in patients with elevated triglycerides [2]. This is important because elevated triglyceride levels are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and many patients with elevated triglycerides are not able to achieve adequate triglyceride control with statins alone [3].

Another benefit of Vascepa is that it has been shown to have a favorable safety profile, with no significant increase in adverse events compared to placebo [2]. This is important because some patients may not be able to tolerate statins due to side effects such as muscle pain or liver damage [3].

In summary, while both Vascepa and statins have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events, Vascepa may offer additional benefits for patients with elevated triglycerides who are not able to achieve adequate control with statins alone. Additionally, Vascepa has a favorable safety profile and may be an alternative for patients who are unable to tolerate statins.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/VASCEPA
[2] https://www.ajmc.com/view/patients-take-different-statins-but-vascepa-benefits-are-the-same
[3] https://www.vascepa.com/benefits/