Vascepa is a prescription medication containing icosapent ethyl, a form of omega-3 fatty acid. It was developed by Amarin Pharmaceuticals to lower triglycerides and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in adults with high triglycerides. According to its manufacturer, Vascepa is not a generally available over-the-counter (OTC) medication [1].

While the FDA did approve Vascepa as an OTC medication for certain conditions in 2022,[2] this approval is highly unusual. For it to be OTC, it had to meet specific requirements, such as providing clear labeling and instructions.

The FDA did, however, issue its approval specifically only for patients who have already had a heart attack or stroke; not the typical OTC patients. Additionally, only people with very high triglyceride levels, 500 mg/dL or higher, but not those with the more typical 150-300 mg/dL levels, could purchase it after approval [3].

At the moment, Vascepa can be found on the shelves of pharmacies with proper patient guidance. However, as it is a prescription medication, patients must fill out a prescription from their doctor prior to making a purchase [4].

Sources:

[1] https://www.amarin.com/vascepa-patient

[2] https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-formulation-vascepa-first-ever-icosapent-ethyl-available-without-prescription

[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/vascepa/

[4] https://www.amarin.com/vascepa-patient