LovaZa (EPA and DHA) is a prescription medication used with diet to lower triglyceride levels in the blood. This drug is used if non-medical treatments such as diet changes, exercise, weight loss, and controlling blood sugar do not fully control blood fat levels. Lowering triglyceride decreases the risk of strokes and heart attacks. The active ingredients in LovaZa are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). EPA and DHA belong to a class of drugs called ethyl esters of omega-3 fatty acids. They work by reducing the amount of triglyceride the body makes.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand LovaZa from the United Kingdom (Omacor) manufactured by Mylan in the strength of 1000 mg capsules. The generic EPA and DHA are not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking LovaZa. The most common side effects of LovaZa may include the following:
• Appetite loss;
• Changes in the sense of taste;
• Constipation;
• Diarrhea;
• Dry mouth
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Severe chest pain;
• Uneven heartbeats;
• Worsen weight gain
These are not all of the side effects of LovaZa. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take LovaZa if you are allergic to EPA, DHA, or any ingredient in LovaZa. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have a heart rhythm disorder;
• Have an allergic reaction to fish or shellfish;
• Have bleeding problems;
• Have diabetes;
• Have liver disease;
• Have hypothyroidism
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between LovaZa and other supplements that can affect blood clotting. Avoid ginger, garlic, evening primrose, clove, dandelion, or red clover with LovaZa. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if LovaZa will harm a fetus. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if LovaZa passes into breast milk and if it may harm a nursing baby. Take LovaZa precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Take the drug with food. Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, break, or open the capsule. LovaZa is often used as part of a treatment program, including diet, exercise, weight control, and blood tests. Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.