A groundbreaking experimental pill, enlicitide, has shown remarkable results in reducing cholesterol levels in individuals at high risk of heart attacks despite taking statins. This pill, developed by Merck, offers a novel approach to managing cholesterol, which is currently only achievable through injected medicines. If approved by the FDA, enlicitide could revolutionize treatment options for millions of people.
In a large-scale study involving over 2,900 high-risk patients, those who took enlicitide experienced a significant 60% reduction in LDL cholesterol (the 'bad' cholesterol) over six months. This is a substantial improvement compared to other pills that patients can take alongside statins, according to Dr. Ann Marie Navar, a cardiologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center. The effectiveness of enlicitide in lowering cholesterol levels was consistent over a year, and there were no significant safety concerns reported.
Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, and high LDL cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. While an LDL level of 100 is considered healthy, doctors often recommend lowering it to 70 or even lower for individuals with high cholesterol or heart disease. Statin pills, such as Lipitor and Crestor, are commonly prescribed to lower LDL levels, but many patients still require additional help.
Injected drugs like PCSK9 inhibitors, which block a liver protein that limits cholesterol clearance, offer more potent LDL reduction. However, only a small percentage of eligible individuals use these drugs due to their complexity and cost. Despite recent price drops, patients may still prefer oral medications over injections.
Merck funded the study, which provides crucial data for FDA approval. The research suggests that enlicitide can lower cholesterol levels comparably to PCSK9 inhibitors. However, Dr. William Boden of Boston University and the VA New England Healthcare System noted that long-term studies are needed to demonstrate a reduction in heart attacks, strokes, and deaths.
The AP Health and Science Department, supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, is solely responsible for the content.
