Vascepa is a prescription medication used to reduce triglyceride levels in adults with high levels of this type of fat in their blood. Fish oil supplements, on the other hand, are available over-the-counter and are used to support overall health and wellness. Both Vascepa and fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to have health benefits.
According to Healthline [2], Vascepa is a purified form of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), one of the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Vascepa is specifically formulated to contain only EPA and is prescribed in higher doses than most fish oil supplements.
The Drug Patent Watch [1] provides information on the patent status of Vascepa, but does not provide information on whether it is safe to take with fish oil supplements.
An NPR article [3] notes that some people may be able to get enough omega-3 fatty acids from their diet, including fatty fish like salmon, and may not need to take supplements. However, for those who do take supplements, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to their regimen.
In summary, while both Vascepa and fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, Vascepa is a prescription medication and is specifically formulated to contain only EPA. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your regimen, including fish oil supplements, to ensure they are safe and appropriate for you to take.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/VASCEPA
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/vascepa
[3] https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/11/25/781195172/for-heart-heart-eat-fish-or-take-pills-a-dose-of-this-drug-equals-8-salmon-servi