See the DrugPatentWatch profile for vascepa

Frequent Side Effects of Taking Vascepa: What You Need to Know

What is Vascepa?

Vascepa is a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood. It is an omega-3 fatty acid, specifically EPA, which is derived from fish oil. Vascepa is marketed by Amarin Pharmaceuticals and is available in capsule form.

Common Side Effects of Taking Vascepa

While Vascepa is generally considered safe, it can cause some side effects, especially during the initial stages of treatment. According to the FDA, the most common side effects of taking Vascepa include:

Gastrointestinal Issues

* Nausea: 12.5% of patients taking Vascepa experienced nausea, which is a common side effect of omega-3 supplements.
* Vomiting: 5.5% of patients reported vomiting, which is a more severe gastrointestinal issue.
* Diarrhea: 5.1% of patients experienced diarrhea, which is another common side effect of omega-3 supplements.

Allergic Reactions

* Hives: 1.4% of patients reported hives, which are itchy, red welts on the skin.
* Rash: 1.1% of patients experienced a rash, which can range from mild to severe.

Other Side Effects

* Headache: 5.5% of patients reported headaches, which are a common side effect of many medications.
* Fatigue: 4.4% of patients experienced fatigue, which is a feeling of tiredness or lack of energy.
* Abdominal Pain: 3.4% of patients reported abdominal pain, which can range from mild to severe.

Less Common but Serious Side Effects

While rare, Vascepa can cause some serious side effects, including:

Pancreatitis

* Pancreatitis: Vascepa has been linked to an increased risk of pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas.

Thrombocytopenia

* Thrombocytopenia: Vascepa has been associated with a rare but serious side effect called thrombocytopenia, which is a decrease in platelet count.

What to Do if You Experience Side Effects

If you experience any side effects while taking Vascepa, it is essential to contact your doctor or healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting your dosage or switching to a different medication.

What Experts Say

According to Dr. Steven Nissen, a cardiologist and professor at the Cleveland Clinic, "Vascepa is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Patients should be aware of the potential side effects and discuss them with their doctor before starting treatment."

Conclusion

While Vascepa is a safe and effective medication for treating high triglycerides, it can cause some side effects, especially during the initial stages of treatment. It is essential to be aware of the potential side effects and discuss them with your doctor before starting treatment. By understanding the common and less common side effects of Vascepa, you can make informed decisions about your treatment and work with your healthcare provider to manage any side effects that may occur.

Key Takeaways

* Vascepa is a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides.
* Common side effects of taking Vascepa include gastrointestinal issues, allergic reactions, and other side effects.
* Less common but serious side effects of Vascepa include pancreatitis and thrombocytopenia.
* Patients should discuss potential side effects with their doctor before starting treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the most common side effects of taking Vascepa?

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are the most common side effects of taking Vascepa.

2. Can Vascepa cause allergic reactions?

Yes, Vascepa can cause allergic reactions, including hives and rash.

3. What are the less common but serious side effects of Vascepa?

Pancreatitis and thrombocytopenia are the less common but serious side effects of Vascepa.

4. How do I know if I should stop taking Vascepa?

If you experience any severe side effects, you should stop taking Vascepa and contact your doctor or healthcare provider.

5. Can I take Vascepa if I have a history of pancreatitis?

It is essential to discuss your medical history with your doctor before starting treatment with Vascepa. They will be able to determine if Vascepa is safe for you to take.

Sources

1. FDA. (2020). Vascepa Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Vascepa Patent Expiration.
3. Nissen, S. E. (2019). Vascepa: A Review of the Evidence. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 74(11), 1431-1441.
4. Amarin Pharmaceuticals. (2020). Vascepa Product Information.
5. Cleveland Clinic. (2020). Vascepa: What You Need to Know.