LOVAZA (OMEGA-3 ACID ETHYL ESTERS)

Lovaza Description

Many people make a point of seeing their doctor at least once a year for a check-up that usually includes a blood test, taking your blood pressure, and a general well-being check. If your blood test shows your triglyceride level is high, you may be prescribed Lovaza or generic Omega-3 Acid Ethyl Esters and advised to change your eating habits to lose weight and to stay active. Hypertriglyceridemia is the medical term for having high levels of this fat found in your blood that can raise your risk of coronary artery disease unless treated to bring it down. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

The Active Ingredients of Lovaza and How it Helps Hypertriglyceridemia

Lovaza (formerly known as Omacor) contains approximately 465 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 375 mg of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in each capsule. These are Omega-3 fatty acids that are found in fish and shellfish. It’s always best to get your Omega-3 from eating oily fish, including salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, and tuna. However, if you are not a fish lover, then take Lovaza.

Triglycerides are transported inside very low density lipoproteins (VDLD) through your bloodstream and delivered to your muscles for energy and to fat cells for storage until you need more energy. It is thought that Lovaza works by reducing the production of VDLD and increasing how much VDLD is eliminated from your body which results in lower triglyceride (TG) levels.

Conditions Treated by Lovaza

When you take a meal, any calories your body does not need right away are converted into triglycerides to be stored and used for energy later as needed. If you consume more calories than you are burning, you are going to have high levels of triglycerides. Risk factors for too much TG may be your age, your weight, genetics, medications, or certain medical conditions like liver or kidney disease, diabetes, or hypothyroidism.

Before Lovaza is Prescribed for You

Ask your doctor about any risks of taking Lovaza while you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Provide information to your doctor about other medical conditions or allergies you have and list any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including alternative medicine, as this will help your doctor determine if Lovaza is right for you.

Precautions for Lovaza

If you have atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, you may experience increased frequency of irregular heartbeats during the first 2 to 3 months after starting Lovaza. Talk to your doctor if this is a concern for you. Do not share Lovaza with anyone and store all medications out of children’s reach and away from pets. Keep all doctor and lab appointments so your progress can be monitored.

Possible Side Effects of Lovaza

• Burping
• Skin rash
• Back pain
• Changes in taste