Vascepa (icosapent ethyl) is a prescription omega-3 fatty acid that is similar to fish oil but not exactly the same. The main differences between Vascepa and fish oil is that Vascepa only contains eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), whereas supplemental fish oils contain both EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). By only containing EPA, Vascepa reduces high triglycerides without raising levels of “bad” cholesterol or LDL-C. Vascepa is also up to four times stronger than most OTC fish oils, more expensive, carries a higher risk of bleeding and heart rythym disturbances, and is only available on prescription to people who meet certain criteria.