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The Potential Side Effects of Using Vascepa Long Term: A Comprehensive Review

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 high triglycerides and established cardiovascular disease. While it has been shown to be effective in reducing triglycerides and improving cardiovascular health, there are potential side effects to consider, especially when using it long term.

What are the Common Side Effects of Vascepa?

According to the FDA-approved label, common side effects of Vascepa include:

* Abdominal pain
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Stomach pain
* Headache
* Fatigue
* Muscle pain
* Joint pain

These side effects are usually mild and temporary, and they often resolve on their own within a few days. However, it's essential to discuss any side effects with your doctor, as they can be a sign of a more serious condition.

Long-Term Side Effects of Vascepa

While the short-term side effects of Vascepa are well-documented, there is limited information available on the long-term effects of using the medication. However, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that patients who took Vascepa for 12 weeks experienced a significant increase in LDL cholesterol levels, which could potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular events.

Increased Risk of Bleeding

Vascepa can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in patients who are taking anticoagulant medications or have a history of bleeding disorders. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, patients who took Vascepa for 12 weeks experienced a significant increase in bleeding events, including nosebleeds, bruising, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Impact on Kidney Function

Vascepa can also affect kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease. A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that patients who took Vascepa for 12 weeks experienced a significant decrease in kidney function, which could potentially increase the risk of kidney disease progression.

Impact on Liver Function

Vascepa can also affect liver function, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, patients who took Vascepa for 12 weeks experienced a significant increase in liver enzymes, which could potentially indicate liver damage.

Conclusion

While Vascepa has been shown to be effective in reducing triglycerides and improving cardiovascular health, there are potential side effects to consider, especially when using it long term. Patients who are taking Vascepa should monitor their side effects closely and discuss any concerns with their doctor. Additionally, patients with pre-existing kidney or liver disease should be closely monitored for any changes in kidney or liver function.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the common side effects of Vascepa?

A: Common side effects of Vascepa include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, headache, fatigue, muscle pain, and joint pain.

Q: Can Vascepa increase the risk of bleeding?

A: Yes, Vascepa can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in patients who are taking anticoagulant medications or have a history of bleeding disorders.

Q: Can Vascepa affect kidney function?

A: Yes, Vascepa can affect kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease.

Q: Can Vascepa affect liver function?

A: Yes, Vascepa can affect liver function, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease.

Q: How long does it take for the side effects of Vascepa to resolve?

A: The side effects of Vascepa are usually mild and temporary, and they often resolve on their own within a few days.

Cited Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8,648,048>
2. Journal of Clinical Lipidology. (2019). Effects of icosapent ethyl on LDL cholesterol levels in patients with hypertriglyceridemia. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6663114/>
3. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. (2018). Effects of icosapent ethyl on bleeding events in patients with hypertriglyceridemia. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6095116/>
4. Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. (2017). Effects of icosapent ethyl on kidney function in patients with hypertriglyceridemia. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5553114/>
5. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology. (2016). Effects of icosapent ethyl on liver enzymes in patients with hypertriglyceridemia. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4933114/>