See the DrugPatentWatch profile for vascepa

An ID is required for buying Vascepa because it is a prescription medication, and in the United States, regulations require a prescription and a patient ID for the purchase of such drugs. This system helps ensure that medications are used appropriately and safely.

Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to lower the risk of cardiovascular events in adults with elevated triglyceride levels. It is a prescription-only medication, meaning it cannot be purchased over the counter.

When a healthcare provider writes a prescription for Vascepa, they must include the patient's personal information, such as their name, date of birth, and contact information. This information is used to create a unique patient ID, which is required for purchasing the medication.

The patient ID system helps ensure that patients receive the correct medication and dosage, and that their medical history is taken into account. It also helps prevent medication errors and abuse.

Furthermore, Vascepa is still under patent protection, and its manufacturer, Amarin Corporation, has exclusive rights to produce and sell the drug until the patent expires. Therefore, only authorized pharmacies and distributors are allowed to sell Vascepa, and they must verify the patient's prescription and ID before dispensing the medication.

In summary, an ID is required for buying Vascepa because it is a prescription-only medication that is still under patent protection. The patient ID system helps ensure that patients receive the correct medication and dosage, and that their medical history is taken into account.

Sources:

1. Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) capsules, for oral use. [DailyMed](https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=a1d7b3b1-d9d3-4e08-a58d-6b65a9c3d3b3&type=display)
2. Amarin Corporation plc Announces FDA Approval of VASCEPA® (icosapent ethyl) Capsules as an Adjunct to Diet to Reduce the Risk of Cardiovascular Events in Adults with Elevated Triglyceride Levels. [BusinessWire](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20191213005223/en/Amarin-Corporation-plc-Announces-FDA-Approval-VASCEPA%C2%AE)
3. DrugPatentWatch - Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) [DrugPatentWatch](https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/vascepa)