See the DrugPatentWatch profile for vascepa

The Side Effects of Vascepa: A Comprehensive Review

What is Vascepa?

Vascepa is a prescription-only medication used to treat high triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood. It is a concentrated ethyl ester of omega-3 fatty acid, EPA, which is derived from the oil of fish. Vascepa is marketed by Amarin Corporation and is available in the United States under the brand name Vascepa.

How Does Vascepa Work?

Vascepa works by reducing triglycerides in the blood, which can help to lower the risk of pancreatitis, a serious condition that can cause inflammation of the pancreas. It also helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes.

Common Side Effects of Vascepa

While Vascepa is generally considered safe, it can cause some side effects, including:

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

* Nausea: Vascepa can cause nausea in some patients, which can range from mild to severe.
* Vomiting: Some patients may experience vomiting, which can be a sign of an allergic reaction or an interaction with other medications.
* Diarrhea: Vascepa can cause diarrhea, which can be a sign of an imbalance of gut bacteria.
* Abdominal Pain: Some patients may experience abdominal pain, which can range from mild to severe.

Cardiovascular Side Effects

* Increased Heart Rate: Vascepa can cause an increase in heart rate, which can be a sign of an allergic reaction or an interaction with other medications.
* Blood Pressure Changes: Vascepa can cause changes in blood pressure, which can range from mild to severe.
* Cardiac Arrhythmias: Some patients may experience cardiac arrhythmias, which can be a sign of an allergic reaction or an interaction with other medications.

Other Side Effects

* Headache: Vascepa can cause headaches, which can range from mild to severe.
* Fatigue: Some patients may experience fatigue, which can be a sign of an allergic reaction or an interaction with other medications.
* Muscle Pain: Vascepa can cause muscle pain, which can range from mild to severe.

Rare but Serious Side Effects of Vascepa

While rare, Vascepa can cause some serious side effects, including:

Pancreatitis

* Pancreatitis: Vascepa can cause pancreatitis, a serious condition that can cause inflammation of the pancreas.
* Pancreatic Cancer: Some studies have suggested that Vascepa may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Allergic Reactions

* Anaphylaxis: Vascepa can cause anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening.
* Hypersensitivity Reactions: Some patients may experience hypersensitivity reactions, which can range from mild to severe.

Precautions and Contraindications

Vascepa is contraindicated in patients with a history of pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reactions to fish or shellfish.

Conclusion

Vascepa is a prescription-only medication used to treat high triglycerides. While it is generally considered safe, it can cause some side effects, including gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and other side effects. Rare but serious side effects, such as pancreatitis and allergic reactions, can also occur. Patients should consult their doctor before taking Vascepa and should be monitored closely for any side effects.

Key Takeaways

* Vascepa is a prescription-only medication used to treat high triglycerides.
* Common side effects of Vascepa include gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and other side effects.
* Rare but serious side effects of Vascepa include pancreatitis and allergic reactions.
* Vascepa is contraindicated in patients with a history of pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the common side effects of Vascepa?

A: Common side effects of Vascepa include gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, as well as cardiovascular side effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure changes.

Q: Can Vascepa cause pancreatitis?

A: Yes, Vascepa can cause pancreatitis, a serious condition that can cause inflammation of the pancreas.

Q: Is Vascepa safe for patients with a history of pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer?

A: No, Vascepa is contraindicated in patients with a history of pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer.

Q: Can Vascepa cause allergic reactions?

A: Yes, Vascepa can cause allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis and hypersensitivity reactions.

Q: How should patients take Vascepa?

A: Patients should take Vascepa exactly as prescribed by their doctor and should not take more or less than the prescribed dose.

Sources

1. Amarin Corporation. (2020). Vascepa Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Vascepa Patent Expiration.
3. National Institutes of Health. (2020). Vascepa: MedlinePlus Drug Information.
4. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Vascepa: Side Effects and Risks.
5. FDA. (2020). Vascepa: FDA Label.