Generic
Omega-3 Acid Ethyl Esters
7 brands available in the market
At a glance
Omega-3 Acid Ethyl Esters is a lipid-regulating drug used to reduce very high triglyceride (>500 mg/dL) levels and for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction. It contains EPA and DHA.
Description
Omega-3-acid ethyl esters reduce triglyceride production by the liver. It inhibits acyl-CoA: 1,2-diacylglycerol acyltransferase to reduce triglyceride synthesis and increase paroxysmal beta-oxidation, increasing fatty acid metabolism. It increases triglyceride clearance by increasing lipoprotein lipase activity and decreases VLDL-C production.
Indications
- Reduction of very high triglyceride (>500 mg/dL) levels (as adjunct to diet)
- Secondary prevention of myocardial infarction (within preceding 3 months)
- Reduction of joint inflammation associated with mild arthritis
- Mood disorders and impulse control
- Age-related macular degeneration
Therapeutic class
Other Lipid Regulating Drugs
Pharmacological class
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Pharmacology
Omega-3-acid ethyl esters inhibit acyl-CoA: 1,2-diacylglycerol acyltransferase to reduce triglyceride synthesis and increase paroxysmal beta-oxidation, increasing fatty acid metabolism. It increases triglyceride clearance and decreases VLDL-C production.
Mechanism of action
Controls blood lipid levels by reducing triglyceride production and increasing clearance.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Hypertriglyceridemia: 4 g (4 capsules) once daily OR 2 g (2 capsules) twice daily
- Myocardial infarction prevention: 1 g (1 capsule) daily
- Arthritis joint inflammation: 2.7 g daily
- Mood disorders and macular degeneration: 1 g daily
Administration
- Take with food
- Swallow capsule whole
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects (1-10%):
- Eructation (4.9%)
- Infection (4.4%)
- Flu-like syndrome (3.5%)
- Dyspepsia (3.1%)
- Taste perversion (2.7%)
- Back pain (2.2%)
- Pain (1.8%)
- Rash (1.8%)
- Angina pectoris (1.3%)
Uncommon: Hyperglycemia, gout, dizziness, hypotension, epistaxis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in hemorrhagic disorders or patients receiving anticoagulants/antithrombotic drugs
- High doses may increase bleeding time
- Monitor hepatic function in liver disease
- Caution in aspirin-sensitive asthma patients
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
Drug interactions
- Monitor prothrombin time with warfarin
Food interactions
Take with food for better absorption.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Unknown if excreted in human milk; use with caution.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children under 18 years.
Geriatric use
Elderly may require dose adjustment.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution in kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution in liver disease; monitor hepatic function especially with high doses.
Overdose effects
Overdose may increase bleeding risk; symptomatic treatment.
Storage conditions
Store below 25°C in a dry and cool place; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Omega-3 Acid Ethyl Esters