Vascepa is a prescription fish oil supplement that contains a highly purified form of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which is an omega-3 fatty acid. It is primarily used to lower triglyceride levels in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia. While there are other fish oil supplements available in the market, there are notable differences between Vascepa and these supplements.

One significant difference is the level of purification. Vascepa is highly purified and contains only EPA, while other fish oil supplements may contain a combination of EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), another omega-3 fatty acid. The high level of purification in Vascepa ensures that it is free from impurities such as contaminants and other fatty acids [2].

Another difference lies in the FDA approval. Vascepa is the only prescription fish oil supplement that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the specific indication of reducing triglyceride levels in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia [1]. This approval is based on clinical trials that have demonstrated the effectiveness of Vascepa in reducing triglyceride levels.

Additionally, the dosage of Vascepa is different from over-the-counter fish oil supplements. Vascepa is available in capsules containing 1 gram of EPA, and the recommended dosage is 4 grams per day [2]. On the other hand, the dosage of other fish oil supplements may vary, and they are typically available in lower concentrations of EPA and DHA.

It is important to note that while both Vascepa and other fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, Vascepa is specifically formulated and approved for the treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia. Other fish oil supplements may have different indications or be marketed as general health supplements.

In conclusion, Vascepa differs from other fish oil supplements in terms of purification, FDA approval, and dosage. It is a prescription fish oil supplement that contains highly purified EPA and is specifically indicated for reducing triglyceride levels in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia [1][2][3].

Sources:
[1] Drug Patent Watch. Vascepa. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/VASCEPA
[2] Healthline. Vascepa: Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and More. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/vascepa
[3] National Center for Biotechnology Information. Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Inflammation and Autoimmune Diseases. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4671468/