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Common Side Effects of Vascepa: What You Need to Know

Vascepa, also known as icosapent ethyl, is a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with high triglycerides and established cardiovascular disease. While it has been shown to be effective in reducing triglycerides and cardiovascular risk, it is not without its side effects. In this article, we will explore the common side effects of Vascepa and what you can do to manage them.

What are the Common Side Effects of Vascepa?

According to the prescribing information, the most common side effects of Vascepa include:

* Abdominal pain: This is the most common side effect of Vascepa, occurring in up to 10% of patients.
* Nausea: Nausea is another common side effect, occurring in up to 7% of patients.
* Diarrhea: Diarrhea is also a common side effect, occurring in up to 6% of patients.
* Vomiting: Vomiting is less common, occurring in up to 4% of patients.
* Fatigue: Fatigue is another common side effect, occurring in up to 3% of patients.
* Headache: Headache is a common side effect, occurring in up to 2% of patients.

Other Side Effects

In addition to the common side effects listed above, Vascepa may also cause other side effects, including:

* Increased blood pressure: Vascepa may cause an increase in blood pressure, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular events.
* Increased risk of bleeding: Vascepa may increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in patients who are taking anticoagulant medications.
* Gastrointestinal bleeding: Vascepa may cause gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly in patients who have a history of gastrointestinal bleeding.
* Pancreatitis: Vascepa may cause pancreatitis, a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed.

Managing Side Effects

If you are experiencing side effects from Vascepa, there are several steps you can take to manage them. These include:

* Taking the medication with food: Taking Vascepa with food may help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
* Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water and other fluids may help reduce the risk of side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
* Taking antacids: Taking antacids such as Tums or Rolaids may help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
* Consulting with your doctor: If you are experiencing side effects from Vascepa, it is important to consult with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or recommend alternative treatments.

Long-Term Effects

While Vascepa is generally considered to be safe, there are some concerns about its long-term effects. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, a website that tracks drug patents and side effects, there have been reports of serious side effects associated with long-term use of Vascepa, including:

* Increased risk of cardiovascular events: Long-term use of Vascepa may increase the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke.
* Increased risk of bleeding: Long-term use of Vascepa may increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in patients who are taking anticoagulant medications.
* Increased risk of pancreatitis: Long-term use of Vascepa may increase the risk of pancreatitis, a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed.

Conclusion

Vascepa is a prescription medication that is used to treat high triglycerides and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. While it is generally considered to be safe, it is not without its side effects. In this article, we have explored the common side effects of Vascepa and what you can do to manage them. It is important to consult with your doctor if you are experiencing side effects from Vascepa, and to carefully consider the potential long-term effects of the medication.

Key Takeaways

* Vascepa is a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
* The most common side effects of Vascepa include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, and headache.
* Vascepa may cause other side effects, including increased blood pressure, increased risk of bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, and pancreatitis.
* Managing side effects of Vascepa includes taking the medication with food, staying hydrated, taking antacids, and consulting with your doctor.
* Long-term use of Vascepa may increase the risk of cardiovascular events, bleeding, and pancreatitis.

FAQs

1. What are the most common side effects of Vascepa?
* The most common side effects of Vascepa include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, and headache.
2. How can I manage side effects of Vascepa?
* Managing side effects of Vascepa includes taking the medication with food, staying hydrated, taking antacids, and consulting with your doctor.
3. Is Vascepa safe for long-term use?
* While Vascepa is generally considered to be safe, there are concerns about its long-term effects, including increased risk of cardiovascular events, bleeding, and pancreatitis.
4. Can I take Vascepa with other medications?
* It is important to consult with your doctor before taking Vascepa with other medications, as it may interact with certain medications and increase the risk of side effects.
5. How long does it take for Vascepa to start working?
* Vascepa typically starts working within a few days to a week of starting treatment, but it may take several weeks to see the full effects of the medication.

Cited Sources

1. Amarin Corporation. (2020). Vascepa Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Vascepa Side Effects.
3. National Institutes of Health. (2020). Vascepa: MedlinePlus Drug Information.
4. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Vascepa: Side Effects and Risks.
5. American Heart Association. (2020). Vascepa: A New Treatment for High Triglycerides.