Vascepa is a prescription drug that contains icosapent ethyl, which is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that has been shown to reduce triglyceride levels in the blood. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology, Vascepa has been shown to be more effective at reducing triglyceride levels than over-the-counter omega-3 supplements [2].

The study compared the effects of Vascepa to those of Lovaza, another prescription omega-3 drug, and to over-the-counter omega-3 supplements. The study found that Vascepa reduced triglyceride levels by 21.5%, while Lovaza reduced levels by 18.8%. Over-the-counter omega-3 supplements, on the other hand, only reduced triglyceride levels by 4.6% [2].

Additionally, Vascepa has been approved by the FDA for use in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events in people with elevated triglyceride levels. This approval was based on the results of a clinical trial that found that Vascepa reduced the risk of cardiovascular events by 25% in people with elevated triglyceride levels [3].

It is important to note that Vascepa is a prescription drug and should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional. While over-the-counter omega-3 supplements may have some health benefits, they are not regulated by the FDA and their efficacy and safety may vary [1].

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/VASCEPA
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4671468/
[3] https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/vascepa