This medication was originally named Omacor®, but the name was changed due to potential confusion with another drug with a similar name.
(Click Lovaza Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Lovaza is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline.
In studies, people with very high triglycerides who took Lovaza lowered their triglyceride levels by 44.
9 percent, while people who took a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredients) actually increased their triglycerides by 6.7 percent. Other studies have shown that Lovaza is also effective for
lowering triglycerides in people who are already taking
statin cholesterol medications.
Studies have shown that Lovaza can sometimes increase
LDL cholesterol ("
bad cholesterol"), so it is important for your healthcare provider to check your
cholesterol levels regularly.
Some people wonder why they should take Lovaza, when there are inexpensive non-prescription
fish oil dietary supplements that seem to be just as good. There are several advantages of Lovaza over such supplements. For example, the less-expensive supplements almost always have a low concentration of EPA and
DHA, regardless of the strength on the label. This can be misleading; it may take numerous 1000 mg supplement capsules to have the same amount of EPA and DHA as a single Lovaza 1000 mg capsule. When this is taken into consideration, much of the cost advantage of the inexpensive supplements is lost.
Perhaps more importantly, dietary supplements are not regulated as strictly as prescription drugs (like Lovaza). In fact, they are regulated as foods. This means that some supplements could potentially be contaminated or could have less (or more) of the active ingredients than stated on the label. Lovaza is made using a 5-step refinement process that removes impurities, ensuring a safe and pure product. Also, this refinement process removes some of the fish oil components that cause the "fish burp," and it is thought that Lovaza is probably less likely to cause the fish burp, compared to the supplements.
Additionally, many prescription insurance plans cover Lovaza; virtually none cover non-prescription dietary supplements.
Some general considerations include the following:
- Lovaza comes in capsule form. It is taken by mouth, once or twice a day.
- Lovaza can be taken at any time of the day; however, it is best to take the medication at the same time(s) each day.
- You can take this medication with food or on an empty stomach. If it bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- It is important to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for any diet and exercise changes you need to make. Your healthcare provider may also recommend that you limit alcohol consumption (to help lower your triglycerides).
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.
There is only one recommended Lovaza dose, regardless of your age or weight (although it can be taken at once or split into two smaller doses per day). As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Potential Side Effects of Lovaza
As with any medicine, side effects are possible. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the common side effects include, but are not limited to:
(Click Lovaza Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking the Drug?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Lovaza?
It is not known exactly what to expect from an overdose of Lovaza (or even if an overdose is possible), but it is reasonable to assume that taking too much may cause the usual side effects of Lovaza, but these side effects may perhaps be more severe. Theoretically, an overdose with Lovaza might cause severe problems, such as internal bleeding.
If you happen to overdose on Lovaza, seek medical attention immediately.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Lovaza as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Lovaza comes in one strength -- Lovaza 1 gram (1000 mg) capsules.
Store Lovaza at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container. Keep Lovaza and all medications out of the reach of children.
Generic Availability of Lovaza
Currently, this medication is not available in generic form.
