Vascepa is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient icosapent ethyl. It is used to treat high levels of triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood, in adults. Vascepa is different from other medications used to treat high triglycerides because it contains only one active ingredient, icosapent ethyl, which is a highly purified form of omega-3 fatty acid.

One of the benefits of Vascepa over other medications used to treat high triglycerides is that it has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, Vascepa reduced the risk of cardiovascular events by 25% in patients with high triglycerides who were also receiving statin therapy [1].

Another benefit of Vascepa is that it has a favorable safety profile compared to other medications used to treat high triglycerides. According to the prescribing information for Vascepa, the most common side effects are joint pain, muscle pain, and swelling in the hands or feet. These side effects are generally mild and go away on their own [2].

Vascepa is also different from other medications used to treat high triglycerides because it is derived from fish oil, whereas other medications are synthetic. This may be a benefit for some patients who prefer to take medications that are derived from natural sources [3].

In summary, Vascepa has several benefits over other medications used to treat high triglycerides, including a significant reduction in the risk of cardiovascular events, a favorable safety profile, and a natural source of the active ingredient. However, as with any medication, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine if Vascepa is the right treatment option for you.

Sources:
[1] https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1812792
[2] https://www.vascepa.com/prescribing-information.pdf
[3] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-vascepa