Is it safe to take fish oil with vascepa?

Fish oil supplements, in general, can interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, anti-platelet agents, and diabetes medications, but the safety of taking fish oil with VASCEPA, a prescription medication containing icosapent ethyl, is still being studied [1].

VASCEPA, an ethyl ester of icosapent acid, is used to treat very high triglycerides (levels above 500 mg/dL) and to lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events in people who cannot control their triglycerides with diet and exercise [2].

Fish oil supplements typically contain a combination of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA. However, the interaction between fish oil and VASCEPA's icosapent ethyl is still a concern because high doses of omega-3 fatty acids might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications.

Studies on the safety and efficacy of combining VASCEPA with fish oil supplements are needed, but according to the prescribing information for VASCEPA, fish oil should be used with caution in patients taking VASCEPA [3].

If you are taking VASCEPA and are considering adding fish oil supplements to your regimen, consult with your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits and consider the following:

1. Monitor your bleeding risks: Regularly check for any signs of easy bruising or bleeding, as high doses of omega-3 fatty acids might increase the risk of bleeding [1].
2. Choose high-quality fish oil: Select fish oil supplements that have a high concentration of icosapent acid (EPA) but are not too high in DHA, as DHA may interact with VASCEPA [2].
3. Consider alternative omega-3 sources: Consult with your healthcare provider about alternative sources of omega-3 fatty acids that do not include fish oil supplements, such as algal oil or krill oil [3].

In summary, while there is limited information on the safety of taking fish oil with VASCEPA, being aware of potential interactions and consulting with your healthcare provider can help you make an informed decision about your regimen.

Sources:

[1] DrugPatentWatch.com [drugpatentwatch.com]
[2] VASCEPA Prescribing Information [www.janssenpharmaceuticalsinc.com]
[3] National Institutes of Health: Omega-3 fatty acids [www.clinicaltrials.gov]