Icosapent Ethyl (2 brand names, 1 dosage form, 1 route)
Available dosage forms: CAPSULE.
Routes of administration: ORAL.
Brand Names
- ICOSAPENT ETHYL
- VASCEPA
Indications and Usage
Icosapent ethyl capsules are indicated: as an adjunct to diet to reduce triglyceride (TG) levels in adult patients with severe (≥ 500 mg/dL) hypertriglyceridemia. Limitations of Use: The effect of icosapent ethyl capsules on the risk for pancreatitis in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia has not been determined.
Contraindications
Icosapent ethyl capsules are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reaction) to icosapent ethyl capsules or any of its components.
Adverse Reactions
The following important adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling: Atrial Fibrillation or Atrial Flutter [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Potential for Allergic Reactions in Patients with Fish Allergy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] Bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
Mechanism of Action
Studies suggest that EPA reduces hepatic very low-density lipoprotein triglycerides (VLDL-TG) synthesis and/or secretion and enhances TG clearance from circulating VLDL particles. Potential mechanisms of action include increased β-oxidation; inhibition of acyl-CoA:1,2-diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT); decreased lipogenesis in the liver; and increased plasma lipoprotein lipase activity.