VASCEPA contains the active ingredient icosapent ethyl, which is a lipid-regulating agent in the form of an ethyl ester of the omega-3 fatty acid. The formulation is a soft gelatin capsule available in 0.5 gram and 1 gram strengths for oral use. Key inactive ingredients include gelatin, glycerin, and purified water.
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not cut, crush, or chew this medication. Swallow the capsules whole. Take it with food. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop. Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 68 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date. To get rid of medication that is no longer needed or has expired: -Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location. -If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible: -Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat -Bleeding—bloody or black, tar-like stools, vomiting blood or brown material that looks like coffee grounds, red or dark brown urine, small red or purple spots on skin, unusual bruising or bleeding -Heart rhythm changes—fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, chest pain, trouble breathing Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome): -Bone, joint, or muscle pain -Constipation -Gout—severe pain, redness, warmth, or swelling in joints, such as the big toe -Sore throat -Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions: -Bleeding disorders -History of irregular heartbeat -Liver disease -An unusual or allergic reaction to icosapent ethyl, fish, shellfish, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives -Pregnant or trying to get pregnant -Breast-feeding
What may interact with this medication?
-Aspirin and aspirin-like medications -Beta blockers, such as metoprolol and propranolol -Certain medications that treat or prevent blood clots, such as warfarin, enoxaparin, dalteparin, apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban -Diuretics -Estrogen and progestin hormones
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. You may need blood work while you are taking this medication. If you are going to need surgery or another procedure, tell your care team that you are using this medication. Taking this medication is only part of a total heart healthy program. Ask your care team if there are other changes you can make to improve your overall health.
Source: This information is sourced from Elsevier Inc.
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Prescription medications affect individuals differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed applies to your personal circumstances. Only a licensed healthcare provider can advise you on what is safe and effective for you.
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