Vascepa

Vascepa Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Vascepa is a brand name. Its generic name is Icosapent.

Vascepa Introduction

Vascepa (also known as EPA-Ethyl Ester) is a prescription medication used to lower high levels of triglycerides, a type of fatty acid, in the blood. It is also used to help prevent coronary artery disease and other cardiovascular disorders in those individuals with high triglycerides and blood sugar levels. It is derived from a purified form of the Omega-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid. It is available as a liquid and as a tablet and it belongs to the medication class of omega-3 fatty acids.

Uses of Vascepa

Vascepa is used to treat high levels of triglycerides in the blood. It is also used to help prevent coronary artery disease and other cardiovascular disorders in those individuals with high triglycerides and blood sugar levels. It may also be used to treat a rare condition known as hypertriglyceridemia.

Mechanism of Action

Vascepa works by reducing the production of certain enzymes in the liver (known as lipoprotein lipase and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase enzyme) that are responsible for the production of triglycerides. It also reduces the uptake of fatty acids from circulating blood into the liver. This reduces the amount of triglycerides available to be released from the liver into the bloodstream.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Most studies report that icosapent can lower triglyceride levels by 25-30% within four weeks of starting treatment.

Absorption

Vascepa is rapidly absorbed from the gut into the bloodstream and is quickly distributed throughout the body. The maximum absorption and concentration of the drug in the bloodstream is typically achieved within two hours of intake.

Route of Elimination

Vascepa is eliminated primarily through the kidneys.

Dosage

The dosage of icosapent varies depending on the individual condition being treated and the age of the patient. The usual dose is 1-4 g per day, taken in as a single, divided dose or as multiple doses throughout the day. It is important to take icosapent as directed by a doctor.

Administration

Vascepa can be taken orally or as an intramuscular injection. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by a doctor.

Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with icosapent treatment include gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Other side effects may include dizziness, headache, and dry mouth. These should be reported to a doctor immediately.

Toxicity

There is no known toxicity associated with icosapent use.

Precautions

Vascepa should be used with caution in those with known cardiovascular or other conditions that can be affected by changes in triglyceride levels. It is also important to discuss any other medications being taken, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin and herbal supplements, with a doctor before starting treatment with icosapent.

Interactions

Vascepa may interact with certain other medications, including anticoagulants, aspirin, blood thinners, and fibrates. It is important to discuss any other medications being taken with a doctor before starting treatment with icosapent.

Disease Interactions

Vascepa may interact with certain diseases, including kidney disease, liver disease, and conditions affecting the ability of the body to absorb or process fats. It is important to discuss any existing health conditions with a doctor before starting treatment with icosapent.

Drug Interactions

Vascepa may interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, aspirin, blood thinners, and fibrates. It is important to discuss any other medications being taken with a doctor before starting treatment with icosapent.

Food Interactions

Vascepa may interact with certain foods, particularly those high in fat. It is important to discuss dietary changes and food intake with a doctor before starting treatment with icosapent.

Pregnancy Use

Vascepa should not be used during pregnancy as its effects have not been studied in pregnant women.

Lactation Use

Vascepa should not be used while breastfeeding as its effects on nursing infants have not been studied.

Acute Overdose

The effects of an acute overdose of icosapent have not been studied. It is important to seek immediate medical attention should a person begin to experience any of the side effects of the treatment described above.

Contraindications

Vascepa is contraindicated in those with known hypersensitivity to the drug or ingredients.

Use Directions

Vascepa should be taken as directed by a doctor. The usual dose is 1-4 g per day, taken in as a single, divided dose or as multiple doses throughout the day. It is important to take icosapent as directed and to report any side effects immediately to a doctor.

Storage Conditions

Vascepa should be stored in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight.

Volume of Distribution

Vascepa is not known to have a significant volume of distribution

Half Life

The half-life of icosapent is approximately 7.7 hours.

Clearance

Vascepa is not known to have a significant clearance rate.

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