What foods should patients take with Vascepa?
Vascepa, also known as icosapent ethyl, is a prescription medication used to lower triglycerides and prevent cardiovascular events in patients with high triglyceride levels and established cardiovascular disease.[1] Since it's a capsule that must be taken on an empty stomach, patients should avoid taking other medications, supplements, or foods that can interfere with its absorption.
Which foods may interact with Vascepa?
Foods high in fat, especially those that are saturated or trans fats, can slow down the absorption of Vascepa. Patients should consider the following when taking Vascepa:
* Saturated or trans fats: Avoid foods high in these types of fats, such as red meat, full-fat dairy products, fried foods, and processed snacks.
* High-fat meals: Eating meals with a high fat content can delay the absorption of Vascepa. Patients should avoid taking Vascepa with meals that contain more than 10 grams of fat.
* Grapefruit and grapefruit products: Grapefruit and its products, such as juice or supplements, can interact with Vascepa and affect its levels in the blood.[2]
Do certain nutrients interact with Vascepa?
Some nutrients or supplements may interact with Vascepa or affect its efficacy. Patients should consult their healthcare provider before taking any supplements or vitamins, especially if they are taking Vascepa:
* Vitamin E: High doses of vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding in patients taking Vascepa.[3]
* Omega-3 fatty acids: Taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements along with Vascepa may increase the risk of bleeding.[4]
Is it safe to take Vascepa with other medications?
Vascepa should not be taken with certain medications, including:
* Anti-platelet medications: Taking anti-platelet medications, such as aspirin or plavix, with Vascepa may increase the risk of bleeding.[5]
* Warfarin: Taking warfarin, an anticoagulant medication, with Vascepa can increase the risk of bleeding.[6]
What should patients tell their healthcare provider about their diet and medications?
To ensure safe and effective treatment, patients should inform their healthcare provider about any changes in their diet or medications. This includes:
* New medications, supplements, or foods added to their diet
* Changes in their current medications or dosages
* Any concerns about potential food or medication interactions
Additional considerations for patients taking Vascepa
To minimize potential interactions, patients should:
* Take Vascepa with a glass of water
* Avoid taking it with foods or other medications that can slow down its absorption
* Inform their healthcare provider about any changes in their diet or medications
* Follow their healthcare provider's instructions for taking Vascepa
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/Drug/vascepa#:~:text=Vascepa%20is%20a%20prescription%20medicine,cardiovascular%20disease.%20It%20is%20approved DrugPatentWatch.com
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548965/#NBK548965pubmed15680492 PubMed
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16217719/ PubMed
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557654/#NBK557654pubmed15557035 PubMed
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558017/#NBK558017pubmed16951341 PubMed
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558019/#NBK558019pubmed16951341 PubMed