Lovaza is the brand name for a prescription drug that contains fish oils and Omega-3 fatty acids, usually prescribed to patients with cardiovascular disease. It was developed by GlaxoSmithKline. Because Lovaza has been put through the process of and approved by the FDA, it is considered a pharmaceutical drug and cannot be purchased over the counter. Over the counter drugs similar to Lovaza include dietary suppliments. In Europe, Lovaza is known as Omacor (and it was also known by that name in the U.S. at one time).
Lovaza is used to treat patients in the U.S. who have high triglyceride levels in their body. It contains Omega-3 fatty acid and has been purified and chemically altered to meet FDA approval. It is mainly used for patients with Hypertriglyceridemia in a monotherapy treatment; however it can sometimes be used in a combination as well. Lovaza is also used to help prevent myocardial infarction or heart attacks, usually resulting from high levels of triglycerides or cholesterol. Patients who have had strokes, heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases are sometimes given Lovaza to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Generic versions of Lovaza will be available after September 2012 when GlaxoSmithKline’s patent expires. Here is a list of all reported Lovaza side effects.
Common Lovaza Side Effects:
- burping
- heartburn
- nausea
- change in the sense of taste
- back pain
- rash
Severe Lovaza Side Effects:
- chest pain
If you experience any of the above side effects notify your doctor right away. Be sure to tell you doctor of any allergies that you may have but especially if you are allergic to fish such as shellfish, mussels, clams, oysters, scallops, crab, shrimp, crayfish, lobster or any other items along those lines. If you notice any other Lovaza side effects not listed here please let us know.