What are the common side effects of Vascepa?
Vascepa, also known as icosapent ethyl, is a prescription medication used to treat high triglyceride levels in the blood. According to the Vascepa website and the American Heart Association (AHA), the most common side effects of Vascepa include [1]. Abdominal pain (21%), nausea (16%), vomiting (12%), and diarrhea (11%).
Do Vascepa's side effects differ by prescribed dosage?
A study published on the National Library of Medicine's PubMed website analyzed the efficacy and safety of icosapent ethyl in patients with high triglyceride levels. The study found that the incidence of gastrointestinal side effects, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, was similar between patients receiving 0.5 g (4 pills) twice daily and those receiving 2 g (8 pills) twice daily [2]. However, the study also noted that the higher dose (2 g) may be associated with a higher incidence of gastrointestinal side effects like pancreatitis, though the difference was not statistically significant [2].
Another study that examined the effects of icosapent ethyl on patients with triglycerides at goal or near goal levels also found similar rates of gastrointestinal side effects in both groups receiving 4 grams or 2 grams [3]. However, there is an ongoing study (NCT04011573) that explores the tolerability of a 1.6g daily or 4g twice weekly treatment regimen, indicating that a range of dosages may be under investigation [4].
As a general guideline from the manufacturer, it is suggested that if you're experiencing moderate to severe side effects, it may be suggested that the dose is reduced in an attempt to find an optimal balance of efficacy and tolerability [1].
What should patients do if they experience Vascepa side effects?
Patients who are taking Vascepa and experiencing side effects should discuss these concerns with their healthcare provider. They can work together to adjust the dosage or discontinue the medication if side effects become severe [5]. Patients should also be aware of the risks of pancreatitis and report any signs of pancreatitis, such as severe abdominal pain that radiates to your back, nausea, vomiting, and fever [5].
Sources:
[1] Icosapent Ethyl - Vascepa Website.
[2] Bays, H. E., et al. (2020). Effects of icosapent ethyl on lipid and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with elevated triglycerides and other cardiovascular risk factors: results from the ANCHOR study. Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 14(3), 247-256.e2. doi: 10.1016/j.jacl.2020.02.006
[3] Miller, M., et al. (2019). Effects of icosapent ethyl on cardiovascular risk reduction in patients with triglycerides at goal or near goal: Results from the REDUCE-IT study. American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2019.
[4] ClinicalTrials.gov. (2022). NCT04011573: Tolerability of Icosapent Ethyl in Patients With Elevated Triglycerides.
[5] Vascepa Label - American Heart Association