Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Esters (By mouth)
oh-MAY-ga-3-AS-id ETH-il ES-ters
Lowers high triglyceride levels.
Drug classes
Antihyperlipidemic (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Omega-3-acid ethyl esters are used together with a proper diet to lower very high triglyceride (fat-like substance) levels in the blood. This medicine may help prevent medical problems caused by clogged blood vessels such as heart attacks and strokes.
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Liquid Filled Capsule
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed. Take this medicine at the same time each day.
It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
Swallow the capsule whole. Do not break, crush, chew, dissolve, or open the capsule. Do not let this medicine come into contact with foam plastic cups (Styrofoam).
Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Some medicines can affect how omega-3-acid ethyl esters work. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
Clopidogrel An NSAID pain or arthritis medicine (such as aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen) A blood thinner (such as warfarin)When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to omega-3-acid ethyl esters.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, if you have liver disease, an underactive thyroid, a heart rhythm problem, or an allergy to fish or shellfish.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Fast or uneven heartbeat, dizziness, fainting
Unusual bleeding or bruising
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Burping, stomach upset
Change in taste
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Lovaza, Omega-3 D-3 Wellness Pack Kit, Omtryg
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
