#hypertriglyceridemia

All patients should receive general measures (ie, address modifiable causes, manage atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease [ASCVD] risk, implement lifestyle modification [eg, dietary changes, reduction in alcohol consumption]) and optimal low-density lipoprotein lowering therapy for 4 to 12 weeks before considering triglyceride lowering therapy. For patients whose triglycerides remain ≥500 mg/dL and who do not warrant icosapent ethyl for additional ASCVD risk reduction, any prescription strength omega-3 fatty acid (including icosapent ethyl) or a fibrate (fenofibrate preferred) is reasonable.

No, Lovaza and Vascepa are not the same. They are distinct prescription omega-3 fatty acid formulations with different compositions and, importantly, different FDA-approved indications.

Lovaza (omega-3-acid ethyl esters USP) contains both EPA and DHA as ethyl esters, with approximately 465 mg of EPA and 375 mg of DHA per 1-gram capsule. [1] In contrast, Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) contains only highly purified EPA as an ethyl ester, providing 1 gram of EPA per capsule with essentially no DHA. [2-3]

The most clinically significant difference lies in their FDA-approved indications. Both are approved as adjuncts to diet for reducing triglyceride levels in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia (≥500 mg/dL). [1-2][4] However, Vascepa has an additional cardiovascular outcomes indication based on the REDUCE-IT trial: it is approved to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary revascularization, and unstable angina in patients with elevated triglycerides (≥150 mg/dL) who are on maximally tolerated statin therapy and have either established cardiovascular disease or diabetes with additional risk factors. [2][4-5] Lovaza does not have this cardiovascular risk reduction indication. [1]

Their lipid effects also differ. While both lower triglycerides substantially, Lovaza increases LDL-C by approximately 45% in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia, whereas Vascepa decreases LDL-C by approximately 6.5%. [2] This distinction may be clinically relevant when selecting therapy for patients with mixed dyslipidemia.

The Scientific Research Notes of S. Sunkavally, Printed Part, Pg. 92.

The Scientific Research Notes Of S. Sunkavally (years: 2002-2011).

The Scientific Research Notes Of S. Sunkavally (years: 2002-2011).

It can also be used to lower triglyceride levels. I use it if pts have TG levels of 400 or greater.

Fish oil can increase HDL cholesterol.

Google search will show you this:

Vascepa, an omega-3 prescription drug containing icosapent ethyl (EPA), has shown benefits in reducing cardiovascular risk for people with diabetes. Specifically, the REDUCE-IT study demonstrated that Vascepa reduced cardiovascular event risk in people with diabetes and established cardiovascular disease, even beyond other therapies. Additionally, Vascepa has been shown to improve glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, and beta-cell function in animal studies, suggesting potential protective effects against diabetes. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Cardiovascular Benefits:Vascepa, when added to statin therapy, reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and certain heart-related hospitalizations in adults with diabetes. 

Mechanism of Action:Vascepa, containing EPA, may reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and affect other factors that contribute to cardiovascular disease. 

Diabetes-Specific Benefits:The REDUCE-IT trial specifically showed that participants with diabetes had a 1.5-fold greater rate of the primary endpoint (cardiovascular events) compared to the placebo group, but Vascepa significantly reduced the risk in this subgroup.