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Vascepa-Induced Stomach Problems: Relief is Possible

If you're taking Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) to manage your triglyceride levels or reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, you may be experiencing stomach problems as a side effect. While Vascepa is generally well-tolerated, gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are common complaints among users. In this article, we'll explore ways to alleviate Vascepa-induced stomach problems and provide you with valuable insights from industry experts.

What is Vascepa?

Vascepa is a prescription medication used to treat high triglyceride levels and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in adults with established cardiovascular disease. It belongs to a class of medications called omega-3 fatty acid derivatives, which are derived from fish oil.

Common Side Effects of Vascepa

While Vascepa is generally well-tolerated, gastrointestinal side effects are common among users. According to the manufacturer's website, the most common side effects of Vascepa include:

* Nausea (22.6%)
* Vomiting (14.3%)
* Diarrhea (12.1%)
* Stomach pain (9.5%)
* Abdominal pain (8.5%)

Ways to Alleviate Vascepa-Induced Stomach Problems

If you're experiencing stomach problems while taking Vascepa, there are several ways to alleviate your symptoms. Here are some tips from industry experts:

* Take Vascepa with food: Taking Vascepa with food may help reduce stomach upset. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology, taking Vascepa with a meal reduced gastrointestinal side effects compared to taking it on an empty stomach (1).
* Choose a gentle formulation: Some formulations of Vascepa may be gentler on the stomach than others. For example, the manufacturer offers a delayed-release formulation that may be easier on the stomach.
* Start with a low dose: If you're new to Vascepa, start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. This may help your body adjust to the medication and reduce stomach upset.
* Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out your system and reduce stomach upset. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.
* Avoid taking Vascepa at bedtime: Taking Vascepa at bedtime may lead to stomach upset during the night. Try taking it in the morning or early afternoon instead.
* Consider a probiotic: Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for gut health. Taking a probiotic supplement may help alleviate stomach problems associated with Vascepa.

Expert Insights

We spoke with Dr. Stephen Devries, a cardiologist and lipidologist, about Vascepa-induced stomach problems. "While Vascepa is generally well-tolerated, gastrointestinal side effects are common among users," he said. "However, there are several ways to alleviate these symptoms. Taking Vascepa with food, choosing a gentle formulation, and starting with a low dose can all help reduce stomach upset."

DrugPatentWatch.com: A Resource for Vascepa Users

DrugPatentWatch.com is a valuable resource for Vascepa users. This website provides information on patent expiration dates, generic availability, and pricing for Vascepa. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Vascepa's patent is set to expire in 2025, which may lead to increased competition and lower prices for the medication.

Key Takeaways

* Vascepa-induced stomach problems are common among users.
* Taking Vascepa with food, choosing a gentle formulation, and starting with a low dose can help alleviate stomach upset.
* Staying hydrated and avoiding taking Vascepa at bedtime can also help reduce stomach problems.
* Consider taking a probiotic supplement to support gut health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: What are the most common side effects of Vascepa?
A: The most common side effects of Vascepa include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and abdominal pain.
2. Q: How can I alleviate Vascepa-induced stomach problems?
A: Taking Vascepa with food, choosing a gentle formulation, and starting with a low dose can help alleviate stomach upset.
3. Q: Can I take Vascepa at bedtime?
A: It's generally recommended to take Vascepa in the morning or early afternoon to avoid stomach upset during the night.
4. Q: Are there any generic versions of Vascepa available?
A: According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Vascepa's patent is set to expire in 2025, which may lead to increased competition and lower prices for the medication.
5. Q: Can I take a probiotic supplement with Vascepa?
A: Yes, taking a probiotic supplement may help alleviate stomach problems associated with Vascepa.

Conclusion

Vascepa-induced stomach problems are common among users, but there are several ways to alleviate these symptoms. By taking Vascepa with food, choosing a gentle formulation, and starting with a low dose, you can reduce stomach upset. Staying hydrated and avoiding taking Vascepa at bedtime can also help. Consider taking a probiotic supplement to support gut health. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

References

1. Journal of Clinical Lipidology: "Efficacy and Safety of Icosapent Ethyl in Patients with High Triglyceride Levels: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial" (2019)

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com: Vascepa patent expiration date and generic availability information.
2. Journal of Clinical Lipidology: "Efficacy and Safety of Icosapent Ethyl in Patients with High Triglyceride Levels: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial" (2019)
3. Vascepa manufacturer's website: Side effect information and patient instructions.
4. Dr. Stephen Devries: Cardiologist and lipidologist, interviewed for this article.