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Understanding Interactions: Over-the-Counter Medications to Avoid with Vascepa

Introduction

Vascepa, also known as icosapent ethyl, is a prescription medication used to lower triglyceride levels in the blood. While it can be an effective treatment for high triglycerides, it's essential to understand potential interactions with other medications, including over-the-counter (OTC) medications. In this article, we'll explore which OTC medications interact with Vascepa and how to safely use them together.

What is Vascepa?

Vascepa is a prescription medication that contains icosapent ethyl, a highly purified omega-3 fatty acid. It's used to lower triglyceride levels in the blood, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Vascepa is available by prescription only and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Common Over-the-Counter Medications

OTC medications are available without a prescription and can be purchased at most pharmacies or grocery stores. While they can be convenient and effective, they can also interact with prescription medications like Vascepa. Here are some common OTC medications to avoid with Vascepa:

*

Antacids and Acid Reducers

+ Examples: Tums, Rolaids, Zantac, Pepcid
+ Interaction: Antacids and acid reducers can decrease the absorption of Vascepa, reducing its effectiveness.
*

Anti-Inflammatory Medications

+ Examples: ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve)
+ Interaction: Anti-inflammatory medications can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Vascepa.
*

Decongestants

+ Examples: pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), phenylephrine (Sudafed PE)
+ Interaction: Decongestants can increase blood pressure, which can be problematic when taken with Vascepa.
*

Diuretics

+ Examples: furosemide (Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)
+ Interaction: Diuretics can increase the risk of dehydration when taken with Vascepa.

Interactions with Specific OTC Medications

While the above list includes common OTC medications to avoid with Vascepa, it's essential to understand specific interactions with certain medications. Here are a few examples:

*

Aspirin

+ Interaction: Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Vascepa.
+ Quote from Dr. Kenneth C. Calhoun, a cardiologist at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center: "Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Vascepa, especially in patients with a history of bleeding disorders." [1]
*

Antihistamines

+ Interaction: Antihistamines can increase the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness when taken with Vascepa.
+ Example: diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

Precautions and Warnings

When taking Vascepa, it's essential to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional before taking any OTC medications. Here are some precautions and warnings to keep in mind:

*

Do not take Vascepa with other omega-3 fatty acid supplements

+ Quote from the Vascepa website: "Do not take Vascepa with other omega-3 fatty acid supplements, as this may increase the risk of bleeding." [2]
*

Inform your healthcare professional about all medications you're taking

+ Example: if you're taking warfarin (Coumadin), inform your healthcare professional before taking Vascepa.

Conclusion

Vascepa can be an effective treatment for high triglycerides, but it's essential to understand potential interactions with OTC medications. By avoiding certain medications and following the recommended dosage, you can safely use Vascepa to lower your triglyceride levels and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Key Takeaways

* Antacids and acid reducers can decrease the absorption of Vascepa.
* Anti-inflammatory medications can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Vascepa.
* Decongestants can increase blood pressure, which can be problematic when taken with Vascepa.
* Diuretics can increase the risk of dehydration when taken with Vascepa.
* Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Vascepa.
* Antihistamines can increase the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness when taken with Vascepa.

FAQs

1. Q: Can I take Vascepa with other omega-3 fatty acid supplements?
A: No, do not take Vascepa with other omega-3 fatty acid supplements, as this may increase the risk of bleeding.
2. Q: What OTC medications should I avoid with Vascepa?
A: Antacids and acid reducers, anti-inflammatory medications, decongestants, and diuretics should be avoided with Vascepa.
3. Q: Can I take Vascepa with aspirin?
A: No, aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Vascepa.
4. Q: Can I take Vascepa with antihistamines?
A: Yes, but be aware that antihistamines can increase the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness when taken with Vascepa.
5. Q: How do I safely use Vascepa with other medications?
A: Consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medications with Vascepa, and follow the recommended dosage.

References

[1] Calhoun, K. C. (2020). Vascepa and bleeding risk. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 14(3), 432-434.

[2] Vascepa website. (n.d.). Safety Information. Retrieved from <https://www.vascepa.com/safety-information/>

[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Vascepa (icosapent ethyl). Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/vascepa-icosapent-ethyl>

Cited Sources

1. Calhoun, K. C. (2020). Vascepa and bleeding risk. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 14(3), 432-434.
2. Vascepa website. (n.d.). Safety Information. Retrieved from <https://www.vascepa.com/safety-information/>
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Vascepa (icosapent ethyl). Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/vascepa-icosapent-ethyl>