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FDA approves 1st-of-its-kind pill to reduce cholesterol
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Key Points:
- The FDA approved Lipfendra, a first-of-its-kind daily oral pill by Merck that lowers "bad" LDL cholesterol by inhibiting the PCSK9 protein, offering an alternative to costly injectable treatments.
- Lipfendra showed a 56% to 59% reduction in LDL cholesterol in late-stage trials, including effectiveness for patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic form of high cholesterol.
- Priced at about $300 per month, Lipfendra is less expensive than comparable PCSK9 injectable therapies, which cost around $500 monthly.
- The oral format is expected to improve patient adherence and broaden treatment options, especially for those unwilling or unable to use injections, and it can be used alongside statins for enhanced cholesterol control.
- The drug will be available in pharmacies soon, but patients should verify insurance coverage to determine out-of-pocket costs.
