See the DrugPatentWatch profile for vascepa

Based on the information available, there is some evidence to suggest that flaxseeds and Vascepa (a prescription drug containing the active ingredient icosapent ethyl) may both have a role in reducing triglyceride levels, but they are not equivalent.

Flaxseeds are a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid [1]. Some studies have suggested that flaxseeds or flaxseed oil may help lower triglyceride levels [2][3]. However, the effect may be modest and further research is needed to confirm and better understand these effects.

Vascepa, on the other hand, is a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of adults with severe (≥500 mg/dL) hypertriglyceridemia [4]. Vascepa contains icosapent ethyl, which is a purified form of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), another type of omega-3 fatty acid. Clinical trials have shown that Vascepa can significantly reduce triglyceride levels [5].

In summary, while both flaxseeds and Vascepa may help reduce triglyceride levels, they are not equivalent. Flaxseeds are a dietary supplement, while Vascepa is a prescription medication that has undergone rigorous clinical testing and been approved by the FDA for the treatment of high triglycerides.

Sources:
[1] "Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil." National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/flaxseed-and-flaxseed-oil.
[2] "Flaxseed." Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/food-beverages/flaxseed.
[3] "Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil." The Nutrition Source, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, www.nutrition.havard.edu/healthy-eating-plate/flaxseeds.
[4] "High Cholesterol: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia." MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000375.htm.
[5] "Icosapent Ethyl (Vascepa): Drug Information." RxList, www.rxlist.com/icosapent-ethyl-vascepa-drug.htm.