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Icosapent ethyl


Mechanism of action:

Icosapent ethyl is a highly purified omega-3 fatty acid preparation and is the prescription form of eicosapentaenoic acid ethyl ester. After being converted in the body into eicosapentaenoic acid, it is thought to reduce the hepatic production and secretion of very low-density lipoprotein, decrease fatty acid esterification, and influence hepatic lipid synthesis-related pathways, ultimately lowering blood triglyceride levels. In addition, eicosapentaenoic acid may also increase lipoprotein lipase activity, accelerating the breakdown and clearance of circulating triglycerides.

Reference(s):

Ballantyne CM et al. (2013). Icosapent ethyl for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia. Expert Opin Pharmacother.

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