Lipids
Icosapent ethyl is an ethyl ester of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid. It is thought to work through several mechanisms to reduce triglyceride levels and improve cardiovascular outcomes:
Reduction of VLDL Triglycerides: Icosapent ethyl reduces the hepatic production of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) triglycerides and apolipoprotein B (apoB), which are precursors to LDL cholesterol.
Enhanced Lipoprotein Lipase Activity: It increases lipoprotein lipase activity, which leads to enhanced clearance of triglycerides from the blood.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: EPA has anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its beneficial cardiovascular effects by reducing inflammation in the arterial walls.
Plaque Stabilization: It may help stabilize atherosclerotic plaques, making them less likely to rupture and cause cardiovascular events.
Antithrombotic Effects: EPA has mild antithrombotic effects, which can reduce the risk of blood clot formation.
