Specialist pharmaceutical company Amarin has started trials which it says mark the start of its cardiovascular programme.
The first-phase clinical safety and efficacy trial will look at the use of ultra-pure EPA along with Niacin to treat dyslipidemia or cholesterol.
Niacin is used in these cases but causes a 'flushing' side effect which limits patients' take-up of the treatment. Amarin's trials will look at the effect of using ultra-pure EPA on this side effect.
The company says it will seek partners to further develop in these areas if the trials are successful.
