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Did You Notice Any Digestive Issues After Starting Vascepa?

As a patient taking Vascepa, a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides, you may have experienced some side effects. While Vascepa is generally considered safe and effective, some patients may have reported digestive issues after starting the medication. In this article, we'll explore the potential digestive side effects of Vascepa and what you can do to manage them.

What is Vascepa?

Vascepa is a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood. It is a derivative of omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish oil. Vascepa is designed to reduce triglyceride levels by inhibiting the production of triglycerides in the liver.

Common Side Effects of Vascepa

According to the FDA-approved labeling for Vascepa, common side effects include:

* Abdominal pain
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Stomach pain
* Gas
* Bloating

Digestive Issues After Starting Vascepa

While these side effects are generally mild and temporary, some patients may experience more severe or persistent digestive issues after starting Vascepa. These may include:

* Abdominal cramps: Some patients may experience abdominal cramps or spasms after taking Vascepa.
* Bloating and gas: Vascepa can cause bloating and gas, which can be uncomfortable and embarrassing.
* Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a common side effect of Vascepa, and can range from mild to severe.
* Nausea and vomiting: Some patients may experience nausea and vomiting after taking Vascepa, which can be debilitating.

Why Do Digestive Issues Occur?

Digestive issues after starting Vascepa may occur due to several reasons:

* Increased gut motility: Vascepa can increase the movement of food through the digestive system, leading to diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
* Changes in gut bacteria: Vascepa may alter the balance of gut bacteria, leading to changes in digestion and absorption of nutrients.
* Increased production of gas: Vascepa can cause an increase in the production of gas in the digestive system, leading to bloating and discomfort.

Managing Digestive Issues After Starting Vascepa

If you're experiencing digestive issues after starting Vascepa, there are several steps you can take to manage them:

* Take your medication with food: Taking Vascepa with food may help reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting.
* Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help alleviate diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
* Avoid spicy or fatty foods: Avoiding spicy or fatty foods may help reduce the risk of digestive issues.
* Consider over-the-counter medications: Over-the-counter medications such as antacids or anti-diarrheal medications may help alleviate symptoms.

Expert Insights

According to Dr. Eric J. Topol, a cardiologist and director of the Scripps Translational Science Institute, "Vascepa is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Digestive issues are relatively common, but in most cases, they are mild and temporary."

Conclusion

While digestive issues are a potential side effect of Vascepa, they are generally mild and temporary. By taking your medication with food, staying hydrated, avoiding spicy or fatty foods, and considering over-the-counter medications, you can manage these issues and continue to benefit from the medication. If you're experiencing persistent or severe digestive issues, it's essential to speak with your doctor or healthcare provider.

Key Takeaways

* Vascepa is a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides.
* Common side effects of Vascepa include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, gas, and bloating.
* Digestive issues after starting Vascepa may occur due to increased gut motility, changes in gut bacteria, and increased production of gas.
* Managing digestive issues after starting Vascepa includes taking your medication with food, staying hydrated, avoiding spicy or fatty foods, and considering over-the-counter medications.

FAQs

1. What are the common side effects of Vascepa?

Common side effects of Vascepa include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, gas, and bloating.

2. Why do digestive issues occur after starting Vascepa?

Digestive issues may occur due to increased gut motility, changes in gut bacteria, and increased production of gas.

3. How can I manage digestive issues after starting Vascepa?

You can manage digestive issues by taking your medication with food, staying hydrated, avoiding spicy or fatty foods, and considering over-the-counter medications.

4. Are digestive issues common after starting Vascepa?

Yes, digestive issues are relatively common after starting Vascepa, but they are generally mild and temporary.

5. Should I stop taking Vascepa if I experience digestive issues?

No, you should not stop taking Vascepa without consulting your doctor or healthcare provider. They can help you manage your symptoms and determine if the medication is still safe for you to take.

Cited Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) patent expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8,648,071>
2. Vascepa.com. (2022). Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) prescribing information. Retrieved from <https://www.vascepa.com/prescribing-information.pdf>
3. Topol, E. J. (2020). Vascepa: A review of the evidence. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 75(11), 1335-1343. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2020.02.032