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Common Adverse Reactions to Vascepa: What You Need to Know

Vascepa, also known as icosapent ethyl, is a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with elevated 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 most common adverse reactions associated with Vascepa and what you can do to manage them.

What are the most common adverse reactions to Vascepa?

According to the prescribing information, the most common adverse reactions to Vascepa include:

Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions

* Diarrhea: Diarrhea is the most common adverse reaction to Vascepa, occurring in up to 30% of patients. This is often mild to moderate in severity and typically resolves on its own within a few days.

Abdominal Pain

* Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain, including stomach pain, cramps, and discomfort, is another common adverse reaction to Vascepa, occurring in up to 15% of patients.

Nausea and Vomiting

* Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are also common side effects of Vascepa, occurring in up to 10% of patients.

Headache

* Headache: Headache is a common adverse reaction to Vascepa, occurring in up to 5% of patients.

Fatigue

* Fatigue: Fatigue, or feeling tired or weak, is another common side effect of Vascepa, occurring in up to 5% of patients.

Other Adverse Reactions

In addition to these common adverse reactions, Vascepa may also cause other side effects, including:

Blood Disorders

* Decreased Platelet Count: Vascepa may cause a decrease in platelet count, which can increase the risk of bleeding.

Liver Enzyme Elevations

* Liver Enzyme Elevations: Vascepa may cause elevations in liver enzymes, which can indicate liver damage or inflammation.

Allergic Reactions

* Allergic Reactions: Rarely, Vascepa may cause allergic reactions, including hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.

Managing Adverse Reactions to Vascepa

While adverse reactions to Vascepa are common, they are often mild and temporary. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it is important to contact your healthcare provider. In the meantime, there are several steps you can take to manage adverse reactions to Vascepa:

Take Your Medication as Directed

* Take Your Medication as Directed: To minimize the risk of adverse reactions, take Vascepa exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.

Stay Hydrated

* Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help alleviate symptoms of diarrhea and other gastrointestinal adverse reactions.

Eat Small, Frequent Meals

* Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Eating small, frequent meals can help alleviate symptoms of nausea and vomiting.

Get Plenty of Rest

* Get Plenty of Rest: Getting plenty of rest can help alleviate symptoms of fatigue.

Conclusion

Vascepa is a prescription medication that has been shown to be effective in reducing triglycerides and cardiovascular risk. While it is not without its side effects, most adverse reactions are mild and temporary. By understanding the most common adverse reactions to Vascepa and taking steps to manage them, you can minimize the risk of side effects and achieve the best possible results from your treatment.

Key Takeaways

* Diarrhea is the most common adverse reaction to Vascepa, occurring in up to 30% of patients.
* Abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, headache, and fatigue are also common side effects of Vascepa.
* Vascepa may cause other side effects, including blood disorders, liver enzyme elevations, and allergic reactions.
* Managing adverse reactions to Vascepa involves taking your medication as directed, staying hydrated, eating small, frequent meals, and getting plenty of rest.

FAQs

1. What are the most common adverse reactions to Vascepa?

Diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, headache, and fatigue are the most common adverse reactions to Vascepa.

2. How common are adverse reactions to Vascepa?

Adverse reactions to Vascepa are common, but most are mild and temporary.

3. How can I manage adverse reactions to Vascepa?

To manage adverse reactions to Vascepa, take your medication as directed, stay hydrated, eat small, frequent meals, and get plenty of rest.

4. Can I take Vascepa if I have a history of liver disease?

Vascepa is not recommended for patients with severe liver disease. If you have a history of liver disease, talk to your healthcare provider before taking Vascepa.

5. Can I take Vascepa if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Vascepa is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your healthcare provider before taking Vascepa.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-RE-44,143>
2. National Institutes of Health. (2022). Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/022341s016lbl.pdf>
3. American Heart Association. (2022). Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) for High Triglycerides. Retrieved from <https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/vascepa-icosapent-ethyl-for-high-triglycerides>