What's Happening?
A new cholesterol-lowering pill, Enlicitide, developed by Merck, has demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing LDL cholesterol levels in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH).
In a year-long phase 3 trial involving 303 adults, the drug reduced LDL cholesterol levels by nearly 60%. Enlicitide works by inhibiting PCSK9, a protein that degrades liver receptors responsible for clearing LDL cholesterol. The trial results, published in JAMA, indicate that the drug is well-tolerated with minimal side effects.
Why It's Important?
High LDL cholesterol is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. The development of Enlicitide offers a new therapeutic option for patients with genetic disorders like HeFH, who often struggle to manage cholesterol levels with existing treatments. This advancement could lead to improved cardiovascular health outcomes and reduce the burden of heart disease.
What's Next?
Ongoing trials are assessing whether Enlicitide's cholesterol-lowering effects translate into reduced incidence of heart attacks and strokes. Researchers are also exploring the drug's potential use in a broader population of high-risk patients. If successful, Enlicitide could become a key component in managing cardiovascular risk.
