Breakthrough Oral Drug Cuts LDL Cholesterol by 60% in Landmark Trial
New hope for managing high cholesterol has emerged with the successful completion of Phase 3 trials for Enlicitide, an oral PCSK9 inhibitor. The drug, developed by Merck, showed promising results in lowering LDL cholesterol and reducing cardiovascular risk.
Enlicitide demonstrated a significant reduction of up to 60% in LDL cholesterol when used alongside routine cholesterol-lowering treatments. This effect was sustained for at least 52 weeks, also lowering other cholesterol types and lipoprotein(a).
The trial results align with those of Evolocumab, an FDA-approved injectable PCSK9 inhibitor, which has proven effective in reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Both drugs work by targeting PCSK9, a protein involved in cholesterol regulation.
Currently, one person dies every 34 seconds from cardiovascular disease in the US, making it the leading cause of death. High cholesterol contributes to this by causing plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Merck plans to apply for FDA approval of Enlicitide early next year, offering a new oral option for managing high cholesterol and reducing cardiovascular risk. The successful trial results suggest that long-term lowering with PCSK9 inhibitors can potentially improve cardiovascular morbidity and mortality over time.
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