icosapent ethyl
Pronunciation: eye-KOS-ah-pent ETH-il
Highly purified EPA omega-3 fatty acid prescribed to reduce cardiovascular events in high-risk patients with elevated triglycerides.
Full Definition
Icosapent ethyl is a highly purified form of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid, formulated as an ethyl ester for pharmaceutical use. Unlike dietary fish oil supplements that contain both EPA and DHA, icosapent ethyl contains only EPA, which has been shown to provide cardiovascular protection without the potential adverse effects associated with DHA supplementation. The REDUCE-IT trial demonstrated significant reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events when icosapent ethyl was added to statin therapy in high-risk patients with elevated triglycerides. The drug is indicated for patients with established cardiovascular disease or diabetes with multiple risk factors who have fasting triglycerides ≥150 mg/dL despite statin therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Brand name Vascepa should be capitalized; distinguish from generic omega-3 supplements.
In Context
- "Icosapent ethyl 2 grams twice daily was added to the patient's statin regimen for residual cardiovascular risk reduction." — Prescription documentation
- "The REDUCE-IT trial established icosapent ethyl as an evidence-based therapy for cardiovascular event prevention." — Clinical guideline