About Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl)
Vascepa is a lipid-lowering medication that decreases triglyceride levels in the body.
Vascepa is a medication used to treat hypertriglyceridemia and as an adjunctive agent, a medication used in addition with other medications, to lower cardiovascular risk in certain cases. Vascepa is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation under different brand names, including Lovaza.
Vascepa may be prescribed as a capsule. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage you are prescribed.
If you are prescribed Vascepa, it is important to take daily, or as directed, in order for the medication to adequately treat and manage your medical issue.
Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) uses
There are three FDA-approved uses for Vascepa. Your online medical professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons.
Reducing stroke
Cardiovascular disease
Hypertriglyceridemia (high triglyceride levels)
Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl) side effects
There are potential side effects associated with taking Vascepa. Vascepa's possible side effects include:
Serious bleeding
Muscle or joint pain
Swelling of the hands, legs, or feet
Chest pressure, racing or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, feeling short of breath.
Mild allergic reactions
Atrial flutter
Other side effects, which are less common could include:Fast or irregular heartbeats
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Chest discomfort
Fainting
You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects or develop other new or concerning symptoms.
How to take Vascepa Prescription (Icosapent Ethyl)
Your doctor will provide you with instructions on how to take your Vascepa prescription.
Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Then, call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Vascepa can come in different forms and doses, so follow the specific instructions on your prescription.
What to avoid while taking Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl)
Vascepa has many potential drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs. It is important to tell your doctor when taking Vascepa if you take any blood thinners.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to consume alcohol while taking Vascepa. Vascepa alcohol interactions have not been reported. However, it's best to limit your alcohol intake while taking Vascepa.
If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Vascepa or any of its ingredients, do not take Vascepa. Vascepa is made from omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil and could cause allergic reactions in people with a fish or shellfish allergy.
If you have liver problems and related medical conditions, Vascepa treatment might make these worse.
It’s not known if Vascepa treatment is safe during pregnancy. It’s unknown if Vascepa is safe to take while breastfeeding as it is unknown of the medication transfers to breast milk.
Avoid chewing Vascepa capsules. They are not meant to be crushed, smashed, or chewed. Swallow Vascepa capsules whole. Inform your doctor if you are allergic to fish or shellfish, as Vascepa should be used with caution in patients with these allergies
Medication alternatives to Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl)
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another icosapent ethyl capsule or a lipid-lowering agent in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue.
Reducing stroke
Cardiovascular disease
Vascepa prescription FAQs
How much does Vascepa cost?
The average price of a one-month supply of Vascepa is $461.78. This price will vary based on the insurance used to pay for Vascepa and your chosen pharmacy.
How can I refill my Vascepa prescription?
Vascepa capsules can be refilled at a pharmacy. Your healthcare professional or pharmacist can prescribe Vascepa.
When is the best time to take Vascepa?
It is recommended to take Vascepa with or after a meal.
How long does it take for Vascepa to lower triglycerides?
If you’re taking Vascepa to lower your elevated triglyceride levels, clinical trials show it may take a few weeks to see changes. Taking Vascepa to reduce your risk of heart problems will take longer to see results.
What happens if I take Vascepa without food?
Vascepa can be taken with or without food. However, it is recommended to take it with food as it can upset some people's stomachs.
Does Vascepa lower blood pressure?
Vascepa treatment will not lower blood pressure alone. However, when paired with a healthy diet and exercise routine, Vascepa can help reduce the additional risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Who should not take Vascepa?
People with conditions with an increased risk of bleeding, atrial fibrillation, liver problems, abnormal liver function tests, or allergies to fish/shellfish should not take Vascepa without consulting a healthcare professional.
What happens if I miss a dose of Vascepa?
Take the missed dose ASAP. However, if it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next scheduled dose. Do not double dose.
What happens if I take too much Vascepa?
As with all prescription drugs, seek medical attention if you take more than prescribed.
3 simple steps to request your Vascepa prescription today
![Step 1: Book an appointment](https://images.ctfassets.net/93dxz9nwxioo/qt92VznfNuTEDXOZzoh61/87980737ef20fae409214f93719e0b37/step1.jpg?fm=avif&q=65&w=750)
Step 1
Book a Vascepa prescription request appointment.
You can book a same-day appointment from anywhere.
![Step 2: Visit with a doctor on your smartphone](https://images.ctfassets.net/93dxz9nwxioo/2D9XZaum9S4B0CRrr4kIsh/384b9ac6426e5ccad96ae4d99d6025f3/step2.jpg?fm=avif&q=65&w=640)
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Vascepa prescription.
You can visit a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
![Step 3: pick up at local pharmacy](https://images.ctfassets.net/93dxz9nwxioo/6ooloWzVDmoond6VsrSsX6/0fa0f8fc7c37638745e6fa1ce37bc1d7/step3.jpg?fm=avif&q=65&w=750)
Step 3
Pick up your Vascepa prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
How to talk to your doctor about Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl):
During your telemedicine visit or appointment with your local doctor, it’s important to thoroughly address any concerns and questions you may have about treatment options for high triglycerides. The more informed you are, the better equipped you will be to make empowered decisions about your health. Here are some questions you can ask to get started:
What is my overall cholesterol profile, and why are my triglycerides high?
Will Vascepa help me to reach my goals for my heart health?
Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to improve my cardiovascular health?
What do you recommend for dealing with unwanted side effects?
How will Vascepa interact with the other medications I’m taking?
How often should I have follow-up appointments to track my progress?
How long will I need to be on this medication, and are there any negative effects from long-term use?
If Vascepa does not work for me, what other options could I try?
Vascepa prescription pricing details
How pricing works
Join our monthly membership and get discounted visits to get a new or refill on your Vascepa prescription.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Vascepa prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Cleveland Clinic: "Icosapent Ethyl Capsules." Cleveland Clinic. Accessed on December 14, 2023, at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19677-icosapent-ethyl-capsules.
Vascepa Official Website: "Vascepa® (icosapent ethyl) Official Website." Accessed on December 14, 2023, at https://www.vascepa.com/.
FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration): "Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) Capsules." FDA. Accessed on December 14, 2023, at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/202057s019lbl.pdf.
Mayo Clinic: "Icosapent Ethyl (Oral Route) - Description." Mayo Clinic. Accessed on December 14, 2023, at https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/icosapent-ethyl-oral-route/description/drg-20075707.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.