Common Side Effects of Vascepa
Vascepa, also known as icosapent ethyl, is a prescription medication used to lower triglyceride levels in the blood and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. While generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. According to the manufacturer's website and the FDA [1], common side effects of Vascepa include:
- Abdominal pain [2]
- Increased liver enzymes
- Inflammation
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Allergic reactions, such as hives or itching
Rarer but Serious Side Effects
More serious side effects, although rare, have been reported. These include:
- Pancreatitis
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Thrombocytopenia
Comparison with Omega-3 Supplements
It's worth noting that while Omega-3 supplements, which are often over-the-counter, contain various types of fatty acids, Vascepa is specifically designed to contain EPA (icosapent ethyl) in a particular dosage. Some patients have reported side effects from taking high doses of Omega-3 supplements, which may be different from those experienced with Vascepa [3].
Patent Expiration and Biosimilars
As for patents related to Vascepa, according to DrugPatentWatch.com [4], Amarin Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Vascepa, held U.S. Patent No. 7,629,094, which expired on July 31, 2020. The company also had U.S. Patent No. 9,575,696, which expires on August 17, 2027.
Sources:
[1] FDA
[2] A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that 9.1% of patients taking Vascepa experienced abdominal pain (2020)
[3] Omega-3 supplements may cause side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, nausea, and diarrhea, especially at high doses (American Heart Association)
[4] DrugPatentWatch.com