Is ezetimibe safe to take with vascepa long term?

Ezetimibe, typically marketed under the brand name Zetia, is a cholesterol-lowering medication. It works by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine [1]. Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) is a prescription omega-3 fatty acid indicated for the treatment of cardiovascular risk in patients on statin therapy [2].

There is limited information available about long-term safety interactions between ezetimibe and Vascepa. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that combination therapy of ezetimibe and icosapent ethyl (Vascepa) resulted in a significant reduction in triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels in patients with mixed dyslipidemia [3].

However, it is essential to note that long-term combination therapy of ezetimibe and Vascepa should be under the supervision of a healthcare provider, due to the potential increased risk of bleeding, particularly in patients with renal impairment or those taking high doses of both medications [4]. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patents for both ezetimibe [5] and Vascepa [6] have expired, which may affect the availability and pricing of these medications.

Before taking ezetimibe with Vascepa for an extended period, patients should discuss with their healthcare provider the potential risks and benefits and monitor their liver function regularly, as ezetimibe can cause liver damage in rare cases [7].

Sources:

[1] DrugPatentWatch.com - Zetia (ezetimibe) US Patent [https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/Drug/Patent/US-6127069]

[2] DrugPatentWatch.com - Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) US Patent [https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/Drug/Patent/US-10641945]

[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7443415/

[4] Drugs.com - Icosapent ethyl Side Effects [https://www.drugs.com/sio/icosapent-ethyl-side-effects.html]

[5] www.drugpatentwatch.com

[6] www.drugpatentwatch.com

[7] Drugs.com - Ezetimibe Side Effects [https://www.drugs.com/sio/ezetimibe-side-effects.html]