Vascepa vs. Epanova

Are Epanova and Vascepa the Same Thing?

Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) and Epanova (omega-3-carboxylic acids) are omega-3 fatty acids used along with a low-fat and low-cholesterol diet to lower high triglycerides (fats).

Epanova is used in adult patients with severe (500 mg/dL and greater) hypertriglyceridemia.

Side effects of Vascepa and Epanova that are similar include joint pain.

Side effects of Vascepa that are different from Epanova include sore throat.

Side effects of Epanova that are different from Vascepa include diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, belching, bloating, constipation, vomiting, fatigue, runny or stuffy nose, and changes in the sense of taste.

Both Vascepa and Epanova may interact with blood thinners.

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How to Lower Your Cholesterol & Save Your Heart See Slideshow

What Are Possible Side Effects of Vascepa?

Common side effects of Vascepa include:

What Are Possible Side Effects of Epanova?

Common side effects of Epanova include:

  • diarrhea
  • nausea
  • abdominal pain or discomfort
  • belching
  • bloating
  • constipation
  • vomiting
  • fatigue
  • runny or stuffy nose
  • joint pain, and
  • changes in the sense of taste

What Is Vascepa?

Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) is a type of omega-3 fatty acid, a fat found in fish oil. It is used along with a low-fat and low-cholesterol diet, to lower high triglycerides (fats). Vascepa is thought to work by decreasing the amount of triglycerides made by the body.

What Is Epanova?

Epanova (omega-3-carboxylic acids) is a lipid-regulating agent used as an adjunct to diet to reduce triglyceride (TG) levels in adult patients with severe (≥ 500 mg/dL) hypertriglyceridemia.

QUESTION

What are triglycerides? See Answer

What Drugs Interact With Vascepa?

Vascepa may interact with other drugs affecting coagulation (e.g., anti-platelet agents). Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you take.

What Drugs Interact With Epanova?

Epanova may interact with drugs affecting coagulation (e.g., anti-platelet agents). Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant before taking Epanova. The effects of this drug on a fetus are unknown. This drug can pass into breast milk and its effect on a nursing infant is unknown. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

How Should Vascepa Be Taken?

The recommended dosage is 2 capsules (4 grams) twice daily with food.

How Should Epanova Be Taken?

The dosage of Epanova is 2 grams (2 capsules) or 4 grams (4 capsules) once daily.

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References

Amarin. Vascepa Prescribing Information.
https://www.vascepa.com/
AstraZeneca. Epanova Prescribing Information.
http://www.epanovahcp.com/

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