See the DrugPatentWatch profile for vascepa

Common Vascepa Side Effects: What You Need to Know

What is Vascepa?

Vascepa is a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood. It is a fatty acid called icosapent ethyl, which is derived from omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Vascepa is marketed by Amarin Pharmaceuticals and is available in capsule form.

Common Vascepa Side Effects

While Vascepa is generally considered safe, it can cause some common side effects. According to the FDA, the most common side effects of Vascepa include:

Digestive Issues

* Diarrhea: Vascepa can cause diarrhea, which is often mild and temporary.
* Nausea: Some people may experience nausea while taking Vascepa.
* Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain or discomfort is another common side effect.

Allergic Reactions

* Hives: Rarely, people may experience hives or itchy skin while taking Vascepa.
* Swelling: Vascepa can cause swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat in rare cases.

Other Side Effects

* Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of Vascepa.
* Fatigue: Some people may feel tired or fatigued while taking Vascepa.
* Muscle Pain: Muscle pain or stiffness is another common side effect.

Rare but Serious Side Effects

While rare, Vascepa can cause some serious side effects, including:

Pancreatitis

* Pancreatitis: Vascepa has been linked to an increased risk of pancreatitis, a serious condition that can cause inflammation of the pancreas.

Increased Risk of Bleeding

* Bleeding: Vascepa can increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in people who are taking anticoagulant medications.

Who Should Avoid Taking Vascepa?

Vascepa is not suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications should avoid taking Vascepa, including:

Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women

* Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Vascepa is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as its effects on the fetus or baby are not well understood.

People with Kidney or Liver Disease

* Kidney or Liver Disease: Vascepa is not recommended for people with severe kidney or liver disease, as it may worsen their condition.

What to Do if You Experience Side Effects

If you experience any side effects while taking Vascepa, it is essential to talk to your doctor. They may be able to recommend a different dosage or switch you to a different medication. In rare cases, Vascepa may need to be discontinued.

Conclusion

Vascepa is a prescription medication that can help lower triglycerides and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. While it is generally considered safe, it can cause some common side effects, including digestive issues, allergic reactions, and other side effects. It is essential to talk to your doctor about any side effects you experience and to follow their recommendations for managing them. By understanding the potential side effects of Vascepa, you can make an informed decision about whether it is right for you.

Key Takeaways

* Vascepa is a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides.
* Common side effects of Vascepa include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and headache.
* Rare but serious side effects of Vascepa include pancreatitis and increased risk of bleeding.
* Vascepa is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people with kidney or liver disease.
* If you experience side effects while taking Vascepa, talk to your doctor about managing them.

FAQs

1. What are the most common side effects of Vascepa?

Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, and headache are the most common side effects of Vascepa.

2. Can Vascepa cause allergic reactions?

Yes, Vascepa can cause rare but serious allergic reactions, including hives and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

3. Is Vascepa safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

No, Vascepa is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as its effects on the fetus or baby are not well understood.

4. Can Vascepa interact with other medications?

Yes, Vascepa can interact with other medications, including anticoagulant medications, which can increase the risk of bleeding.

5. What should I do if I experience side effects while taking Vascepa?

If you experience side effects while taking Vascepa, talk to your doctor about managing them. They may be able to recommend a different dosage or switch you to a different medication.

Sources

1. FDA. (2020). Vascepa Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Vascepa Patent Expiration.
3. Amarin Pharmaceuticals. (2020). Vascepa Product Information.
4. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Vascepa: Side Effects.
5. WebMD. (2020). Vascepa: Side Effects.