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What Supplements Should You Avoid with Vascepa?

As a patient taking Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) to manage your triglycerides and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, it's essential to be aware of potential interactions with supplements. Vascepa is a prescription medication that works by reducing triglycerides and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. While it's generally well-tolerated, combining it with certain supplements can lead to adverse effects or reduce its effectiveness. In this article, we'll explore the supplements you should avoid taking with Vascepa.

Understanding Vascepa's Mechanism of Action

Before we dive into the supplements to avoid, let's quickly review how Vascepa works. Vascepa is a prescription omega-3 fatty acid medication that selectively inhibits the production of liver enzymes involved in triglyceride synthesis. This leads to a reduction in triglycerides and an increase in HDL cholesterol. By reducing triglycerides, Vascepa also reduces the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease.

Supplements to Avoid with Vascepa

While Vascepa is generally safe, combining it with certain supplements can lead to adverse effects or reduce its effectiveness. Here are some supplements you should avoid taking with Vascepa:

1. Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in blood clotting. Taking vitamin K supplements with Vascepa may increase the risk of bleeding, as both medications can thin the blood. If you're taking vitamin K supplements, consult with your doctor before starting Vascepa.

2. Antioxidants

Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, can interact with Vascepa and reduce its effectiveness. Antioxidants can also increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Vascepa.

3. Omega-3 Supplements

While it may seem counterintuitive to avoid omega-3 supplements with Vascepa, some omega-3 supplements can interact with the medication. Certain omega-3 supplements may contain high levels of EPA and DHA, which can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Vascepa.

4. St. John's Wort

St. John's Wort is a herbal supplement that can interact with Vascepa and reduce its effectiveness. St. John's Wort can also increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Vascepa.

5. Garlic Supplements

Garlic supplements can interact with Vascepa and increase the risk of bleeding. Garlic can also reduce the effectiveness of Vascepa by increasing the production of liver enzymes involved in triglyceride synthesis.

6. Ginger Supplements

Ginger supplements can interact with Vascepa and increase the risk of bleeding. Ginger can also reduce the effectiveness of Vascepa by increasing the production of liver enzymes involved in triglyceride synthesis.

What to Do Instead

If you're taking any of these supplements, consult with your doctor before starting Vascepa. Your doctor may recommend alternative supplements or adjust your dosage to minimize potential interactions. Additionally, always read the label and follow the recommended dosage for any supplement you're taking.

Conclusion

Vascepa is a powerful medication that can help manage triglycerides and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. However, combining it with certain supplements can lead to adverse effects or reduce its effectiveness. By avoiding supplements that interact with Vascepa, you can ensure safe and effective treatment. Remember to consult with your doctor before starting any new supplements, and always follow the recommended dosage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I take omega-3 supplements with Vascepa?

No, it's recommended to avoid taking omega-3 supplements with Vascepa, as they can interact with the medication and increase the risk of bleeding.

2. Can I take vitamin K supplements with Vascepa?

No, it's recommended to avoid taking vitamin K supplements with Vascepa, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

3. Can I take antioxidants with Vascepa?

No, it's recommended to avoid taking antioxidants with Vascepa, as they can interact with the medication and reduce its effectiveness.

4. Can I take St. John's Wort with Vascepa?

No, it's recommended to avoid taking St. John's Wort with Vascepa, as it can interact with the medication and reduce its effectiveness.

5. Can I take garlic supplements with Vascepa?

No, it's recommended to avoid taking garlic supplements with Vascepa, as they can interact with the medication and increase the risk of bleeding.

Cited Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8,648,071-B2>
2. Vascepa.com. (2022). Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.vascepa.com/prescribing-information.pdf>
3. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Omega-3 fatty acids: What are they? Retrieved from <https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/omega-3-fatty-acids/faq-20058055>
4. National Institutes of Health. (2022). Vitamin K. Retrieved from <https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminK-HealthProfessional/>
5. WebMD. (2022). St. John's Wort. Retrieved from <https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1003/st-johns-wort>