Icosapent Ethyl
Vascepa is a prescription omega-3 fatty acid medication containing highly purified eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). It is primarily used to reduce cardiovascular risk in certain high-risk adult patients and to treat severe hypertriglyceridemia. This medication is typically prescribed alongside statin therapy for patients who need additional lipid management.
Vascepa is an omega-3 prescription medication used to reduce cardiovascular risk and lower very high triglycerides, typically as an adjunct to statin therapy.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1304980
- Generic
- Vascepa
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Vascepa is indicated for treating severe hypertriglyceridemia (triglyceride levels ≥500 mg/dL) and reducing cardiovascular events in high-risk adult patients on statin therapy with established cardiovascular disease or diabetes with other risk factors.
Vascepa contains EPA, a highly purified omega-3 fatty acid that reduces triglyceride production in the liver and may have anti-inflammatory effects. Unlike some other omega-3 products, it contains only EPA without DHA, which allows for high-dose therapy without significant LDL cholesterol elevation.
Vascepa is taken orally with food. Common side effects may include joint pain, swelling, and muscle pain. Patients should inform their doctor of any fish or shellfish allergies. Regular monitoring of lipid levels may be needed during treatment.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy