Vascepa is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient icosapent ethyl and is used to treat high levels of triglycerides in the blood. The drug was first approved by the FDA in 2012 and has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes [3].
According to DrugPatentWatch [1], Vascepa is currently protected by patents that will not expire until 2030. This means that there are no generic versions of Vascepa available on the market yet. However, it is important to note that the expiration of a patent does not necessarily mean that a generic version of the drug will become available immediately.
In terms of comparing Vascepa to other similar medications, SingleCare [2] notes that Lovaza is another prescription medication used to treat high triglyceride levels. Lovaza contains the active ingredient omega-3-acid ethyl esters and has been shown to be effective in reducing triglyceride levels. However, Vascepa has been found to be more effective than Lovaza in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events [2].
In summary, while there are currently no generic versions of Vascepa available due to active patents, it is important to note that the expiration of a patent does not necessarily mean that a generic version of the drug will become available immediately. In terms of comparing Vascepa to other similar medications, Vascepa has been found to be more effective than Lovaza in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/VASCEPA
[2] https://www.singlecare.com/blog/vascepa-vs-lovaza/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK566011/