Is Vascepa Vegan? Understanding the Ingredients

December 7, 2025 •

3 min read

The active ingredient in Vascepa, icosapent ethyl, is derived from fish oil, making the medication non-vegan. This is a crucial detail for patients following a vegan lifestyle or with fish allergies, as the capsule also contains animal-derived gelatin.

Quick Summary

Vascepa is not vegan because its active ingredient, icosapent ethyl, is sourced from fish oil, and the soft-gelatin capsule uses animal-derived gelatin. Vegans and those with fish allergies should consult a doctor about alternative, plant-based omega-3 options.

Key Points

Animal-Derived Active Ingredient: The key component in Vascepa, icosapent ethyl, is purified from fish oil, not a plant source.
Gelatin Capsule: Vascepa is delivered in a soft-gelatin capsule, and gelatin is derived from animal by-products, making the entire product non-vegan.
Fish Allergy Risk: Because the active ingredient is from fish oil, individuals with fish or shellfish allergies are advised to use caution or avoid Vascepa.
Microalgae is a Vegan Alternative: Vegan sources of omega-3 EPA and DHA include supplements made from microalgae oil, which is a direct plant-based source.
ALA vs. EPA/DHA: Plant foods like flaxseed and walnuts contain ALA, which the body converts to EPA inefficiently, unlike direct, highly purified sources in Vascepa or algae oil.
Consult a Physician: Patients should always consult a doctor to discuss appropriate vegan alternatives for managing triglycerides or cardiovascular risk, as Vascepa is a prescription medication.

Why Vascepa is Not Suitable for a Vegan Diet

Vascepa, a prescription medication used to reduce cardiovascular risk and lower high triglyceride levels, is not suitable for individuals following a vegan lifestyle. The reasons for this are twofold, relating to both the active pharmaceutical ingredient and the composition of the capsule itself.

The Source of Icosapent Ethyl

At the core of Vascepa is its active ingredient, icosapent ethyl (IPE), which is a highly purified form of the omega-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). According to official prescribing information and regulatory documents, this EPA is obtained from the oil of fish. While the manufacturing process purifies the EPA to a high degree, the origin remains animal-based. The oil is typically extracted from cold-water fish like sardines and anchovies. This fish-derived source immediately disqualifies Vascepa from being considered vegan, regardless of any other components.

The Presence of Gelatin in the Capsule

Another critical factor is the composition of the soft-gelatin capsule that contains the icosapent ethyl. Regulatory filings, such as the Summary Basis of Decision document from Health Canada, explicitly state that gelatin is used in the manufacturing of Vascepa capsules. Gelatin is a gelling agent derived from animal by-products, typically from the collagen found in animal bones, skin, and connective tissues. For this reason, any medication or supplement that uses a gelatin capsule is not vegan. This ingredient reinforces the fact that Vascepa is not a vegan product and is also a concern for individuals with religious dietary restrictions or those with known allergies to certain animal products. Other inactive ingredients found in the capsule include glycerin, maltitol, and sorbitol.

Vegan Alternatives and Considerations

For those seeking a vegan alternative to marine-based omega-3 fatty acids, there are several options available. However, these alternatives differ from Vascepa in several key aspects, including their composition and regulatory status.

Algae Oil Supplements: Algae is the original source of the EPA and DHA that fish consume. Supplements made from microalgae oil provide a direct source of these beneficial omega-3s without the need for animal products. Algae oil supplements are an excellent option for vegans seeking to increase their EPA and DHA intake directly.
Plant-Based Sources of ALA: Plant foods like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a shorter-chain omega-3. While the human body can convert ALA into EPA and DHA, this process is inefficient, meaning a high intake of ALA is needed to produce sufficient amounts of the longer-chain fatty acids.
Dietary Adjustments: Beyond supplements, a balanced, whole-foods, plant-based diet can contribute to overall cardiovascular health. Incorporating sources of ALA, and consuming foods with a healthy omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, is important.

Marine-based EPA vs. Vegan Omega-3 Sources: A Comparison


Feature	Vascepa (Icosapent Ethyl)	Vegan Alternatives (e.g., Algae Oil)
Source of EPA/DHA	Marine (fish oil)	Plant-based (algae)
Capsule Composition	Contains animal-derived gelatin	Vegan-friendly (often cellulose or plant-based)
Purity	Highly purified, prescription-grade EPA	Variable, depending on the manufacturer
Purpose	Reduces cardiovascular risk and severe hypertriglyceridemia	Supplements daily intake of omega-3s
Regulatory Status	FDA-approved prescription drug	Dietary supplement, not subject to the same strict regulation

Consultation and Safe Practices

It is crucial for patients to discuss all medication and supplement choices with a healthcare provider. Vascepa is a prescription medication, and its use should be medically supervised. A doctor can help determine the best course of action, especially for vegans who need to manage high triglyceride levels. For example, some individuals may have a history of fish or shellfish allergies, which is a contraindication for Vascepa. A physician can provide guidance on appropriate alternatives that do not pose an allergic risk or conflict with ethical beliefs.

Conclusion: Vascepa is Not Vegan

Based on a review of its ingredients, Vascepa is not a vegan-friendly product due to its active component being derived from fish oil and its capsule containing animal-based gelatin. The source of icosapent ethyl is fish, and the gelatin used in the softgel is animal-derived, explicitly confirming its non-vegan status. For those following a vegan diet or who have fish allergies, it is necessary to explore alternative, plant-based options, such as microalgae-derived EPA and DHA supplements, under the guidance of a healthcare professional. These alternatives can help meet omega-3 needs without compromising ethical or health-related dietary restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Vascepa is not vegan because its active ingredient, icosapent ethyl, is derived from fish oil, and its soft-gelatin capsule is made with animal-derived gelatin.

Patients with known allergies to fish and/or shellfish should use Vascepa with caution, and it is a contraindication if a patient has a history of an allergic reaction to fish or its ingredients.

The active ingredient is icosapent ethyl, which is a purified form of the omega-3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) sourced from fish oil.

Yes, vegan alternatives for omega-3s are available, primarily from microalgae oil supplements which provide direct EPA and DHA. Plant-based foods like flaxseed and chia seeds offer ALA, but conversion to EPA is less efficient.

Vascepa is a highly purified, prescription-grade product containing only EPA, whereas standard fish oil supplements typically contain a mixture of EPA and DHA with varying purity levels.

Yes, regulatory documents confirm that animal-derived gelatin is an excipient (inactive ingredient) used in the manufacture of Vascepa capsules.

No, you should not switch medications without consulting your doctor. Vascepa is a prescribed medication for a specific medical condition, and any changes should be discussed with your healthcare provider.