From the Research
It is generally considered safe to take icosapent ethyl (brand name Vascepa) with tadalafil (Cialis), as there are no significant known drug interactions between these two medications. However, you should always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking before starting either one. Both medications can have effects on your cardiovascular system - icosapent ethyl is used to lower triglyceride levels and reduce cardiovascular risk, while tadalafil can cause mild blood pressure lowering effects. This combination might potentially enhance blood pressure reduction, which could be concerning if you already have low blood pressure or are taking other blood pressure medications. Additionally, both medications may affect bleeding risk - icosapent ethyl because it's an omega-3 fatty acid that can have mild antiplatelet effects, and tadalafil because it increases nitric oxide which can influence platelet function. If you're scheduled for surgery or have a bleeding disorder, this is particularly important to discuss with your doctor. Monitor for any unusual symptoms like dizziness, excessive bruising, or bleeding and seek medical attention if they occur.
Some key points to consider:
- Icosapent ethyl has been shown to reduce cardiovascular events in patients with established cardiovascular disease or diabetes and elevated triglyceride levels, as demonstrated in the REDUCE-IT trial 1.
- The medication is generally well-tolerated, but caution is advised when used in patients taking antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapies due to an increased risk of bleeding 2.
- Tadalafil can cause mild blood pressure lowering effects, which may be enhanced when combined with icosapent ethyl, potentially leading to concerns in patients with low blood pressure or those taking other blood pressure medications.
- Patients taking icosapent ethyl should be monitored for potential adverse effects, including gastrointestinal disorders or bleeding, in addition to a possible increased risk of atrial fibrillation 3.
- It is essential to discuss the use of icosapent ethyl and tadalafil with your healthcare provider, especially if you have a bleeding disorder or are scheduled for surgery, to weigh the benefits and risks of this combination.