A groundbreaking new pill, enlicitide, has shown remarkable results in reducing artery-clogging cholesterol in individuals at high risk of heart attacks, even when they are already taking statins. This experimental drug, funded 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 recent study involving over 2,900 high-risk patients, those who took enlicitide experienced a significant 60% reduction in LDL cholesterol over six months. This is a substantial improvement compared to other pills that can be added to statins, according to Dr. Ann Marie Navar, a cardiologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center. The effectiveness of enlicitide in lowering LDL cholesterol is comparable to that of PCSK9 inhibitors, a type of injected drug that is less commonly used due to its complexity and cost.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the nation, and high LDL cholesterol is a critical 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 those at high risk. Statin pills, such as Lipitor and Crestor, are widely used to manage LDL cholesterol, but many individuals still require additional help to meet medical guidelines.
The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, revealed that enlicitide users experienced a slight decrease in LDL cholesterol over a year, with no significant safety concerns. However, it is essential to take the pill on an empty stomach. Despite the promising results, further research is needed to demonstrate that enlicitide's cholesterol reduction translates into a reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death, which typically takes a more extended period to establish.
Merck's study, which is part of the final data required for FDA approval, has been fast-tracked through a special review program. The research provides compelling evidence that enlicitide can match the cholesterol-lowering effects of PCSK9 inhibitors, according to Dr. William Boden of Boston University and the VA New England Healthcare System. However, he also emphasized the need for more extensive research to confirm the long-term benefits of the drug.
The Associated Press Health and Science Department, supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, acknowledges the AP's sole responsibility for all content.
