Product Details

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS:

CLASS:

• Antihyperlipidemic

Mechanism of Action:

It is highly purified ethyl ester concentrate of eicosapenntaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. The mechanisms of action is not entirely understood, however, possible mechanisms of action include the inhibition of acyl coenzyme A:1,2-diacylglycerol acyltransferase and increased peroxisomal beta-oxidation in the liver.

Dosing and Indications:

Usual Adult Dose for Hypertriglyceridemia

1 gram prescription only products:
4 grams orally daily; may be given as a single dose or 2 divided doses.

Comments:
-Assess triglyceride levels carefully before starting therapy and identify other possible causes (e.g. diabetes, hypothyroidism, medications) and manage appropriately.
-Patients should be on a lipid lowering diet prior to using this medication, and continue the diet during use of this medication.
-Capsules should be swallowed whole; do not break, crush, chew or dissolve capsules.
-In clinical trials, the medication was administered with meals.

Adverse Effects:

• Bleeding gums
• cough
• coughing up blood
• difficulty with breathing or swallowing
• dizziness
• fast or irregular heartbeat
• headache
• hives, itching, or skin rash
• increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding
• nosebleeds
• paralysis
• prolonged bleeding from cuts
• puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
• red or black, tarry stools
• red or dark brown urine
• sweating
• tightness in the chest
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Monitoring Parameters:

Triglycerides and other lipids (LDL-C) should be monitored at baseline and periodically. In patients with hepatic impairment, monitor hepatic transaminase levels, particularly ALT, periodically.

Patient Education

• Patient may experience burping, change in taste, nausea, abdominal pain, joint pain, or diarrhea. Have patient report immediately to prescriber abnormal heartbeat, bruising, or bleeding (HCAHPS).

• Educate patient about signs of a significant reaction (eg, wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat). Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Patient should consult prescriber for additional questions.

Intended Use and Disclaimer: Should not be printed and given to patients. This information is intended to serve as a concise initial reference for health care professionals to use when discussing medications with a patient. You must ultimately rely on your own discretion, experience, and judgment in diagnosing, treating, and advising patients.