What's Happening?
A recent clinical trial has demonstrated the effectiveness of a new drug, enlicitide decanoate, in significantly reducing levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), commonly known as 'bad'
cholesterol. The trial involved 293 participants with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH), a genetic disorder characterized by elevated LDL-C levels from birth. Participants who were already on cholesterol-lowering statins that were not effective saw an average reduction of 58.2% in LDL-C levels after 24 weeks of taking the once-daily enlicitide decanoate pill. The study also noted limited side effects and consistent benefits over a 52-week period. The drug functions as a PCSK9 inhibitor, aiding the liver in clearing LDL-C more effectively.
Why It's Important?
The reduction of LDL-C levels is crucial in preventing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes, which are linked to high cholesterol. The introduction of enlicitide decanoate offers a promising alternative to existing PCSK9 inhibitors, which are typically administered via injection. The pill form of this drug could improve patient adherence to treatment regimens, potentially leading to better health outcomes. The success of this trial could pave the way for broader testing and eventual regulatory approval, providing a new tool in the fight against high cholesterol and its associated health risks.
What's Next?
Researchers plan to further investigate whether the reduction in LDL-C levels achieved by enlicitide decanoate translates into a decreased risk of strokes and heart attacks. The drug still requires regulatory approval before it can be prescribed, but the positive results from this phase 3 trial are encouraging. If approved, enlicitide decanoate could become a widely used treatment for individuals with high cholesterol, particularly those with genetic predispositions like HeFH.
