About icosapent ethyl
Omega-3 fatty acid derivative
Used for
- Alongside a statin to reduce cardiovascular risk in certain adults with high triglycerides
- With diet to lower very high triglycerides in adults
Usual adult dose
2 grams by mouth twice daily with food.
Common side effects
- Joint or muscle pain
- Swelling of hands or feet
- Constipation
- Atrial fibrillation or flutter
Important warnings
- May increase bleeding risk, especially with blood thinners.
- May increase atrial fibrillation risk, particularly with a history of it.
- Use caution with fish or shellfish allergy.
- Very high triglycerides can increase pancreatitis risk; this medicine’s effect on that risk is uncertain.
Pregnancy
Use only if the potential benefit justifies possible fetal risk; human pregnancy data are limited.
Breastfeeding
There is no established information about use during breastfeeding; discuss benefits and potential risks with a clinician.
Interactions
- Anticoagulants and antiplatelet medicines may increase bleeding risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.