Icosapent
Generic name: icosapent [ eye-KOE-sa-pent ]
Brand names: Vascepa, Icosapent Ethyl
Dosage form: oral capsule (0.5 g; 1 g)
Drug class:Miscellaneous antihyperlipidemic agents
What is icosapent?
Icosapent is used together with other medicines (such as statins) to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and some types of heart problems that need hospitalization in adults.
Icosapent is used together with a low-fat and low-cholesterol diet to reduce triglycerides (fats) in adults with severely high triglycerides.
It is not known whether icosapent will lower your risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of your pancreas).
Icosapent may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use icosapent if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
diabetes;
a thyroid disorder;
problems with your pancreas;
a bleeding or blood-clotting disorder; or
if you are allergic to fish or shellfish.
It is not known whether icosapent will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Icosapent can pass into breast milk, and may harm your baby. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Icosapent is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I take icosapent?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Take with food.
Swallow the capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.
You will need frequent blood tests.
Icosapent is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poi...
