Omega-3 Acid Ethyl Esters (USP)
Omega-3 Acid Ethyl Esters is a prescription fish oil-derived medication containing essential omega-3 fatty acids, primarily eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). It is primarily used to lower very high triglyceride levels in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia. This medication is typically prescribed when dietary changes and lifestyle modifications alone are insufficient to manage lipid levels.
Prescription omega-3 supplement used to reduce high triglyceride levels in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 484348
- Generic
- Omega-3 Acid Ethyl Esters (Usp)
- Class
- unclassified
- Brands
- Animi-3 with Vitamin D, Lovaza, Ocean Blue Nutritionals Omega-3 1450, Encora Capsule
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia (triglyceride levels ≥500 mg/dL) as an adjunct to diet. May be used alone or in combination with other lipid-lowering therapies when diet and exercise are not enough to control triglyceride levels.
The omega-3 fatty acids work by reducing hepatic (liver) production of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles, which carry triglycerides in the bloodstream. It also appears to increase the rate at which triglycerides are cleared from the blood, leading to overall lower triglyceride levels.
Should be taken with food to improve absorption. May interact with anticoagulant medications due to potential blood-thinning effects. Common side effects include fishy aftertaste, burping, and mild gastrointestinal upset. Patients should continue following a triglyceride-lowering diet while on this medication. Not a substitute for dietary changes and exercise.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 31, 2026. · Read our editorial policy