Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 8, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Lovaza
- Omtryg
Available Dosage Forms:
- Capsule, Liquid Filled
Therapeutic Class: Antihyperlipidemic
Chemical Class: Omega-3 Fatty Acid
Uses for omega-3-acid ethyl esters
Omega-3-acid ethyl esters are used together with a proper diet to lower very high triglyceride (fat-like substance) levels in the blood. Omega-3-acid ethyl esters may help prevent medical problems caused by clogged blood vessels such as heart attacks and strokes.
Omega-3-acid ethyl esters is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using omega-3-acid ethyl esters
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For omega-3-acid ethyl esters, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to omega-3-acid ethyl esters or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of omega-3-acid ethyl esters in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Geriatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of omega-3-acid ethyl esters in the elderly.
Breastfeeding
Studies suggest that this medication may alter milk production or composition. If an alternative to this medication is not prescribed, you should monitor the infant for side effects and adequate milk intake.
Interactions with medicines
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. ...
