A Critical Review of Icosapent Ethyl in Cardiovascular Risk Reduction

Icosapent ethyl (IPE) was the first fish oil product the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved to reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in adults. IPE is an esterified version of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and acts as a prodrug in the body to exert its effects. IPE affects the body primarily through triglyceride (TG) reduction and was initially indicated for hypertriglyceridemia in addition to statin therapy or for patients with statin intolerances. Various studies have investigated this agent, and multiple subanalyses have been conducted since the FDA approval. These subanalyses have assessed factors such as sex, statin therapy, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels (hs-CRP), and various inflammatory biomarkers in groups of patients taking IPE. This article aims to provide a critical review of the clinical data available regarding cardiovascular benefits of IPE in patients with ASCVD and its value as a treatment option for patients with elevated TG levels.

Automated summary

Icosapent ethyl (IPE) is the first fish oil product approved by the US FDA to reduce the risk of ASCVD in adults. It acts as a prodrug in the body and primarily reduces TG levels. Various studies and subanalyses have investigated the effects of IPE, including its impact on different patient groups and inflammatory biomarkers. This article critically reviews the clinical data on the cardiovascular benefits of IPE in ASCVD patients and its value as a treatment option for elevated TG levels.