Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl)

Do’s

• Before starting Vascepa, read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider for clarification.
• Take Vascepa by mouth with food as directed by your healthcare provider, usually twice a day. Swallow the capsules whole.
• Take Vascepa regularly to derive the most benefit from it. To help remember, take it at the same time each day.
• Continue taking this medication even if you feel well, and continue to follow your healthcare provider’s advice about diet and exercise.

Don’ts

• Do not crush, chew, open, or dissolve the capsules.
• Do not substitute other omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil products (such as nonprescription products, vitamins, and supplements) for Vascepa without consulting your healthcare provider first. These substitutes may not contain the same amount and type of fatty acids.

Common Side Effects:

• Muscle or bone pain
• Swelling of the arms or legs
• Gout
• Constipation

Serious Side Effects:

• Fast or irregular heartbeats
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Fainting
• Serious bleeding
• Allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and others may occur. If any side effects persist, worsen, or cause concern, seek advice from a healthcare provider.

Warnings

Before taking Vascepa, inform your healthcare provider if you have liver disease, diabetes, thyroid disorder, pancreatic problems, bleeding or blood-clotting disorder, allergy to fish or shellfish, or if you consume large quantities of alcohol. If you’re also managing cholesterol or triglycerides, it may help to review how to know your cholesterol levels and what those numbers can mean for your overall heart risk.

Patients with known hypersensitivity to fish and/or shellfish should be informed about the potential for allergic reactions to Vascepa. They should discontinue Vascepa and seek medical attention if any reactions occur.

Serious bleeding can occur in individuals taking Vascepa, especially if they are also taking blood-thinning medicine. The risk of bleeding may increase with concomitant use of antithrombotic medications.

Vascepa may increase the risk for heart rhythm problems, particularly in individuals with heart disease or diabetes with a risk factor for heart disease, or those who have had heart rhythm problems in the past. For broader context on heart disease and contributing factors, see Top 10 Risk Factors of Heart Disease.

Take Vascepa as directed and follow up with your healthcare provider for any necessary monitoring or blood tests, especially if you have liver problems. If you’re balancing diabetes and cardiovascular risk, you may also want to read Know your ABCs about diabetes and heart health.

Discuss these warnings and precautions with a healthcare provider before starting Vascepa to ensure its safe and appropriate use.

This information is not exhaustive. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Vascepa.

Where Can I Buy Vascepa?

Vascepa is available at most pharmacies with a valid prescription from your doctor. You can purchase it at local retail pharmacies or through online pharmacy services. If you're looking for a more affordable option, Canadian pharmacies offer competitive pricing on this medication. DoctorSolve is a certified online pharmacy intermediary that connects you with licensed Canadian pharmacies, providing access to safe and genuine Vascepa at lower costs. Simply add the medication with your required dosage and pack size to your cart, submit your valid prescription, and your order will typically arrive within 2-4 weeks.

How Much Does Vascepa Cost?

The cost of Vascepa varies based on factors such as dosage and pack size. In the United States, a 240-pack of 0.5g Vascepa costs over $594.59 on average at major retail pharmacy chains. If you're looking for a more affordable option, Canadian pharmacies offer significantly lower prices. Through DoctorSolve.com, the same tablet pack is available for approximately $590.00, a savings of around 0.77% compared to U.S. retail prices. This makes Canadian pharmacies an excellent choice for those seeking cost-effective access to their prescription medications.

Is Vascepa Available In Canada?

Vascepa is available in Canada through licensed Canadian pharmacies, offering a safe and affordable alternative for Americans seeking this prescription medication. Vascepa purchased from Canadian pharmacies often costs significantly less than U.S. prices, making it an attractive option for those managing their healthcare expenses.

Can I buy Vascepa over the counter?

No, you cannot buy Vascepa over the counter in the United States. Its active ingredient, icosapent ethyl, is prescription-only because it affects triglyceride levels and heart risk. It may cause serious side effects such as atrial fibrillation and bleeding complications.