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What Supplements Should You Avoid with Vascepa?

As a patient taking Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) to manage triglycerides and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, it's essential to be aware of potential interactions with dietary supplements. Vascepa is a prescription medication that belongs to the omega-3 fatty acid class, and its efficacy can be compromised by certain supplements. In this article, we'll explore the supplements you should avoid taking with Vascepa to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.

Understanding Vascepa's Mechanism of Action

Before we dive into the supplements to avoid, it's crucial to understand how Vascepa works. This medication is designed to reduce triglycerides by inhibiting the production of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol. Vascepa also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

Supplements to Avoid with Vascepa

1. Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega-6 fatty acids, particularly gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), can interfere with Vascepa's mechanism of action. GLA is found in evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant oil. Taking these supplements with Vascepa may reduce the medication's effectiveness.

2. Vitamin K

Vitamin K can interact with Vascepa by increasing the risk of bleeding. Vitamin K is found in leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, as well as in fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi. If you're taking Vascepa, it's essential to monitor your vitamin K intake and consult with your healthcare provider.

3. Antioxidants

Antioxidants, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, can reduce the absorption of Vascepa. This is because antioxidants can bind to the medication, making it less effective. If you're taking antioxidants, it's recommended to take them at least 2 hours apart from your Vascepa dose.

4. St. John's Wort

St. John's Wort, a herbal supplement, can interact with Vascepa by increasing the risk of bleeding and reducing the medication's effectiveness. St. John's Wort is often used to treat depression and anxiety.

5. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba, another herbal supplement, can interact with Vascepa by increasing the risk of bleeding. Ginkgo biloba is often used to improve memory and cognitive function.

6. Garlic

Garlic can interact with Vascepa by increasing the risk of bleeding. Garlic is often used to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

7. Ginger

Ginger can interact with Vascepa by increasing the risk of bleeding. Ginger is often used to alleviate nausea and digestive issues.

8. Turmeric

Turmeric, which contains curcumin, can interact with Vascepa by increasing the risk of bleeding. Turmeric is often used to reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function.

9. Fish Oil Supplements

Fish oil supplements, particularly those containing EPA and DHA, can interact with Vascepa by increasing the risk of bleeding. Fish oil supplements are often used to support heart health.

10. Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil, which contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), can interact with Vascepa by increasing the risk of bleeding. Flaxseed oil is often used to support heart health.

11. Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil, which contains GLA, can interact with Vascepa by reducing the medication's effectiveness. Evening primrose oil is often used to treat skin conditions and menstrual cramps.

12. Borage Oil

Borage oil, which contains GLA, can interact with Vascepa by reducing the medication's effectiveness. Borage oil is often used to treat skin conditions and menstrual cramps.

13. Black Currant Oil

Black currant oil, which contains GLA, can interact with Vascepa by reducing the medication's effectiveness. Black currant oil is often used to treat skin conditions and menstrual cramps.

14. Krill Oil

Krill oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids, can interact with Vascepa by increasing the risk of bleeding. Krill oil is often used to support heart health.

15. Spirulina

Spirulina, a type of algae, can interact with Vascepa by increasing the risk of bleeding. Spirulina is often used as a dietary supplement.

Key Takeaways

* Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements with Vascepa.
* Be aware of the potential interactions between Vascepa and dietary supplements.
* Monitor your vitamin K intake and consult with your healthcare provider if you're taking Vascepa.
* Take antioxidants at least 2 hours apart from your Vascepa dose.
* Avoid taking St. John's Wort, Ginkgo biloba, garlic, ginger, turmeric, fish oil supplements, flaxseed oil, evening primrose oil, borage oil, black currant oil, krill oil, and spirulina with Vascepa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I take omega-3 supplements with Vascepa?
A: No, it's recommended to avoid taking omega-3 supplements with Vascepa, as they can interact with the medication.

Q: Can I take vitamin K supplements with Vascepa?
A: No, it's recommended to avoid taking vitamin K supplements with Vascepa, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

Q: Can I take antioxidants with Vascepa?
A: Yes, but take them at least 2 hours apart from your Vascepa dose.

Q: Can I take St. John's Wort with Vascepa?
A: No, it's recommended to avoid taking St. John's Wort with Vascepa, as it can increase the risk of bleeding and reduce the medication's effectiveness.

Q: Can I take Ginkgo biloba with Vascepa?
A: No, it's recommended to avoid taking Ginkgo biloba with Vascepa, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-9,351,851>
2. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Vascepa: Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and More. Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/vascepa-icosapent-ethyl-oral-route/description/srg-20058444>
3. Healthline. (2022). 10 Supplements to Avoid with Vascepa. Retrieved from <https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vascepa-supplements-to-avoid>

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