What is an example of a capsulized omega 3 fatty acid?

Examples of Capsulized Omega-3 Fatty Acid Products

Lovaza is the FDA-approved prescription omega-3 fatty acid capsule, containing at least 900 mg of omega-3 ethyl esters per 1-gram capsule (approximately 465 mg EPA and 375 mg DHA). 1

Prescription Formulations

• Lovaza (omega-3-acid ethyl esters) is supplied as liquid-filled gel capsules, with each 1-gram capsule containing ethyl esters of EPA (approximately 465 mg) and DHA (approximately 375 mg) sourced from fish oils 1

• Icosapent ethyl (Vascepa) is a prescription EPA-only product that contains highly purified eicosapentaenoic acid without DHA, which does not raise LDL cholesterol levels even in patients with triglycerides >500 mg/dL 2

• Omega-3-carboxylic acids represent another prescription formulation containing both EPA and DHA 3

• All prescription omega-3 products undergo extensive FDA safety and efficacy investigations prior to approval and have active ongoing safety monitoring programs 3

Dietary Supplement Formulations

• Fish oil capsules are the most common dietary supplement form, predominantly containing mixtures of EPA and DHA, though EPA and DHA levels may vary widely within and between brands 3, 4

• Dietary supplements are not FDA-approved over-the-counter drugs and are not required to demonstrate safety and efficacy prior to marketing 3

• These products may contain unwanted cholesterol, fats, or potentially harmful components including toxins and oxidized fatty acids 3

Critical Distinction for Clinical Practice

• Prescription products should never be substituted with dietary supplements because prescription formulations ensure consistent quality, purity, and therapeutic dosing, while dietary supplements generally contain lower levels of EPA and DHA and are not approved or intended to treat disease 3, 5, 4

• The prescription product contains 0.84 g of EPA and DHA combined in every 1-g capsule, providing reliable therapeutic dosing 5

• Products containing both EPA and DHA may raise LDL cholesterol, whereas EPA-only prescription products do not increase LDL-C compared to placebo 3, 2