Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) is a prescription medication used to lower triglyceride levels in adults with severely high triglycerides. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood that can increase the risk of heart disease. Vascepa works by reducing the production of triglycerides in the liver and increasing their clearance from the blood.
Icosapent ethyl is a highly purified form of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil. EPA has been shown to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, including reducing triglyceride levels. Unlike other omega-3 fatty acid supplements, Vascepa contains only EPA and not docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which may help to reduce potential side effects.
Vascepa is believed to work by inhibiting the enzyme diacylglycerol acyltransferase 2 (DGAT2), which is involved in the production of triglycerides in the liver. By reducing the activity of this enzyme, Vascepa reduces the amount of triglycerides produced in the liver and increases their clearance from the blood.
Clinical studies have shown that Vascepa can significantly reduce triglyceride levels in patients with severely high triglycerides, as well as improve other cardiovascular risk factors such as LDL cholesterol and inflammation markers. Vascepa is generally well-tolerated, with the most common side effects being joint pain, muscle pain, and skin rash.
In summary, Vascepa works by reducing the production of triglycerides in the liver and increasing their clearance from the blood. It contains a highly purified form of EPA, which has been shown to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. By inhibiting the enzyme DGAT2, Vascepa reduces the amount of triglycerides produced in the liver. Clinical studies have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing triglyceride levels and improving other cardiovascular risk factors.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/VASCEPA
[2] https://www.goodrx.com/icosapent-ethyl/lovaza-vascepa-lowering-triglycerides
[3] https://www.verywellhealth.com/basic-information-about-vascepa-icosapent-ethyl-698258