ESAPENT ® is a drug based on ethyl esters of polyunsaturated fatty acids (EPA and DHA not less than 85%).
THERAPEUTIC GROUP: Hypolipidemics - Ethyl esters of polyunsaturated fatty acids
ESAPENT ® indications
ESAPENT ® can be used as a pharmacological aid in patients suffering from hypertriglyceridemia, if non-pharmacological therapy (low-fat diet and physical activity) has proved unsatisfactory.
The pleiotropic action of polyunsaturated fatty acids allows ESAPENT ® to also be used in patients with a previous history of myocardial infarction, in order to reduce their mortality.
ESAPENT ® action mechanism
The ethyl esters of polyunsaturated fatty acids present in ESAPENT ® are effectively absorbed in the intestine, and released into the bloodstream through lipoproteins known as chylomicrons. Carried to these macromolecules, and also to the VLDL, they can therefore reach the various peripheral districts re-entering, in the form of phospholipids, in the constitution of cell membranes.
At the leukocyte and endothelial level, these polyunsaturated fatty acids can replace arachidonic acid as a substrate for enzymes involved in the synthesis of leukotrienes and prostaglandins, and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory and platelet aggregating molecules, while increasing the synthesis of active compounds antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory and vaso-protective, while at the hepatic level they can significantly reduce the synthesis of triglycerides and cholesterol, rebalancing the blood levels of circulating lipids.
Numerous other effects associated with the daily intake of omega 3, such as antiarrhythmic, neuroprotective and neurotrophic activity, remain under study and characterization.
Studies carried out and clinical efficacy
THE "PLEIOTROPIC PROPERTIES OF OMEGA 3
Mini Rev Med Chem. 2009
Pleiotropic, cardioprotective effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Dimitrow PP, Jawien M.
The numerous beneficial effects described for the intake of omega 3 are closely related to the pleiotropic properties of these molecules. In addition to the anti-inflammatory, vasoprotective, antiplatelet and neuroprotective action, an "antiartmic activity has been demonstrated, guaranteed by the stabilizing action on the cell membranes of myocardiocytes, and partly responsible for protecting against cardiovascular accidents.
2.OMEGA 3 AND SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATION
Atherosclerosis. 2009 Jun; 204: 476-82.
Anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and plant sterols in hyperlipidemic individuals.
Micallef MA, Garg ML.
The association between polyunsaturated fatty acids of the omega 3 series and plant sterols, administered for 3 weeks in hyperlipidemic patients, guaranteed a significant reduction in the most common markers of systemic inflammation (CRP, TNF, IL6 and leukotrienes), with a reduction in risk cardiovascular by 22%.
3. OMEGA 3 IN SPORTS PRACTICE
J Am Coll Nutr. 2009 Aug;
Effect of omega-3 and policosanol supplementation on attention and reactivity in athletes.
Fontani G, Lodi L, Migliorini S, Corradeschi F.
The polyunsaturated fatty acids of the omega 3 series have been used for years by athletes of various disciplines. Given the neurotrophic and neuro protective role of EPA and DHA, it was decided to experiment with their use in professional karatekis. The results, somewhat encouraging, have shown how supplementation with these fatty acids can guarantee a significant reduction in reaction times.
Method of use and dosage
ESAPENT ® soft capsules of 500mg / 1000mg of ethyl esters of polyunsaturated fatty acids, titrated in EPA and DHA at at least 85% and with a ratio of 0.9 / 1.5: the administration of ESAPENT ® in patients suffering from hypertriglyceridemia should be preceded and accompanied by targeted non-pharmacological interventions (low-fat diet and healthy lifestyle). The standard dosage involves taking a 1 gram capsule 3 times a day, and should be corrected if necessary according to the therapeutic objectives.
In the prevention of mortality in patients with previous myocardial infarction, the suggested dose is one gram per day.
IN ANY CASE, BEFORE TAKING ESAPENT ® - THE PRESCRIPTION AND CONTROL OF YOUR DOCTOR IS NECESSARY.
ESAPENT ® warnings
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have a high safety profile and few precautions for use. The most important one involves careful and doctor-supervised administration in patients suffering from coagulation disorders or under drug therapy with oral anticoagulants, in order to avoid even severe bleeding episodes.
PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING
There are conflicting opinions in the literature on the efficacy and safety of omega 3 in pregnancy.
For this reason, it is advisable to contact your doctor and gynecologist before starting or continuing therapy with ESAPENT ® during pregnancy.
Interactions
Clinically relevant drug and non-drug interactions are reported only for oral anticoagulant drugs. In fact, the therapeutic action of these drugs could be enhanced by the antiplatelet action of omega 3, exposing the patient to possible bleeding in case of vascular lesions.
Contraindications ESAPENT ®
ESAPENT ® is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to one of its components.
Undesirable Effects - Side Effects
The side effects associated with ESAPENT ® therapy are all modest and clinically insignificant; nausea, diarrhea and gastrointestinal burning are the most frequently complained of by patients.
Note
ESAPENT ® can only be sold under medical prescription.
The information on ESAPENT ® published on this page may be out of date or incomplete. For a correct use of this information, see the Disclaimer and useful information page.
