Lovaza

Lovaza is a lipid regulating agent. It helps along with proper diet to reduce triglyceride ( a fat-like substance) in the blood.

It may decrease the production of triglycerides in the liver. It is available in the capsule and liquid filled form and only with your doctor’s prescription.

Your doctor will inform you of what you need to know before using Lovaza.

Before starting the treatment your doctor should be informed about condition such as:

Allergy: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to any food, preservatives, dyes, or had an allergic reaction when you used this drug before.

Children: There are no adequate studies done which prove Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Esters harmful effects in children. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Elderly: This medicine does not cause any different side effects or problem than it does in younger adults.

Pregnancy: It is a category C drug. It is not safe in pregnancy. It may cause harmful effects in an unborn baby.

Breast Feeding: There are no adequate studies which prove that Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Ester passes into breast milk. If you are using this drug while nursing, discuss it with your doctor for possible risk factors.

Drug Interactions: Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Ester may interact with other drugs. Your doctor should be informed of any other medicines which you are taking. He may want to change the dosage or drug.

Some of them are listed below:

• Anticoagulants (Warfarin) any other medicine that affects blood clotting because the risk of bleeding may be increased.
• Antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Clopidogrel).
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) (Ibuprofen).
• Any other medicine that affects blood clotting because the risk of bleeding may be increased.

Several other conditions may reduce its effectiveness.

Make sure you inform your doctor of conditions such as:

• Diabetes
• Heart rhythm problem (atrial flutter or fibrillation).
• Allergy to fish especially shellfish.
• Hypothyroidism
• Liver problem

To use Lovaza properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor.

Use it exactly as your doctor directed. Read the patient information leaflet carefully. Ask your pharmacist if you have any queries.

It only helps in reducing triglyceride level. It does not cure the condition. It is very important to continue to take medicine as directed in order to keep your triglyceride levels within normal range.

Your doctor may give you a diet chart before starting this medication. This diet is low in fats, sugar, and cholesterol. You are also required to exercise regularly.

If you reduce your triglyceride with diet and exercise than this medication may not be needed. Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Ester is only used as an additional help when you cannot control your triglyceride levels with proper diet and exercise.

Swallow omega-3-acid ethyl esters whole. Do not break, open, crush, dissolve, or chew before swallowing. If you cannot swallow omega-3-acid ethyl esters whole, tell your doctor. You may need a different medicine.

Omega-3-acid ethyl esters work best if it is taken at the same time each day.

Dosage: It varies for different patients. Dosage mentioned below is an average dose. You must follow your doctor’s command.

Adults: You have to take 4 capsules every day. You can take 2 capsules two times a day.

Missed dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your daily schedule. Doubling the dose is harmful.

Storage: Store it at room temperature. Keep it away from children.

Before using Lovaza, there are some precautions you must take.

Your doctor should check your daily progress at regular visits. One should follow the diet and exercise schedule given by his/her doctor.

Lab tests may be performed while you use Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Esters. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

Make sure you meet with your doctor in using Lovaza to avoid unwanted potential side effects.

All medicines have some side effects. Some people may experience none or minor side effects.

Consult with your doctor if they become problematic or frequent:

More common are:

• Burping
• Diarrhea
• Taste changes
• Upset stomach or mild stomach pain.
• Heartburn

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.