Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) is a prescription medication used to lower triglyceride levels in adults with very high triglycerides (≥500 mg/dL). It is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that is derived from fish oil. The exact mechanism by which Vascepa lowers triglyceride levels is not fully understood, but it is believed to work by reducing the production of triglycerides in the liver and increasing their clearance from the blood [1].

Vascepa was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 2019 for use in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke in certain adult patient groups with elevated triglyceride levels. This approval was based on the results of a large clinical trial called REDUCE-IT, which showed that Vascepa reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events by 25% compared to placebo [3].

Vascepa is taken orally in the form of capsules, usually two or three times a day with food. It is important to take Vascepa as directed by a healthcare provider, and to follow a low-fat and low-cholesterol diet while taking this medication [2].

In summary, Vascepa is a prescription medication used to lower triglyceride levels in adults with very high triglycerides. The exact mechanism by which it works is not fully understood, but it is believed to reduce the production of triglycerides in the liver and increase their clearance from the blood. Vascepa was approved by the FDA in December 2019 for use in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events in certain adult patient groups with elevated triglyceride levels [1][2][3].

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/VASCEPA
[2] https://www.verywellhealth.com/basic-information-about-vascepa-icosapent-ethyl-698258
[3] https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-use-drug-reduce-risk-cardiovascular-events-certain-adult-patient-groups