Introduction

Omega-3-Acid Ethyl Esters (oh-MAY-ga-3-AS-id ETH-il ES-ters)

Treats high levels of triglycerides (fat-like substance) in your blood. This medicine is used together with diet, exercise, and weight loss to help control triglycerides.

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

Omacor, Lovaza

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to omega-3-acid ethyl esters.

How to Use This Medicine

Liquid Filled Capsule

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
• Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet.
• Swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush or open the capsule. If you are using a disposable foam plastic cup (Styrofoam cup), do not puncture the capsule and do not let its contents contact the foam plastic cup.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a blood pressure medicine (such as atenolol, labetalol, metoprolol, nadolol, propranolol, timolol, Inderal®, or Toprol®). Tell your doctor if you are using estrogen, or diuretics or "water pills" (such as hydrochlorothiazide [HCTZ]).

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have diabetes or an underactive thyroid. Tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to fish.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Chest pain.
• Fast or uneven heartbeat.
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, or body aches.
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
• Unusual bleeding.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Back pain.
• Burping, upset stomach, constipation, or vomiting.
• Changes in appetite.
• Depression, dizziness, or trouble sleeping.
• Dry mouth, trouble swallowing.
• Increased sweating or body odor.
• Joint or muscle pain.
• Migraine headache.
• Runny or stuffy nose.
• Unusual taste in your mouth.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088