Bempedoic acid
Bempedoic Acid is an oral, non-statin lipid-lowering agent used to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia. It is often prescribed for individuals who cannot tolerate statins or require additional LDL-C reduction despite statin therapy.
Mechanism of Action:
- Bempedoic Acid inhibits ATP citrate lyase (ACL), an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis in the liver.
- This reduces cholesterol production and upregulates LDL receptors, enhancing the clearance of LDL-C from the blood.
- Recommended Usage
Indications:
- Primary hyperlipidemia (including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia).
- As adjunct therapy to diet and/or in combination with statins or other lipid-lowering therapies.
Dosage and Administration:
- Typical Dose: 180 mg once daily, taken orally with or without food.
- Adjustments: No dose adjustment required for mild-to-moderate renal or hepatic impairment.
Precautions:
- Not recommended for patients with severe liver impairment.
- Use with caution in patients with a history of tendon disorders or those at risk (e.g., corticosteroid use or renal failure).
- Monitor for elevated uric acid levels and signs of gout in predisposed patients.
- Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Bempedoic Acid.
Benefits:
- Alternative to Statins: Provides a statin-free option for lowering LDL-C in statin-intolerant patients.
- Add-on Therapy: Improves LDL-C reduction when combined with other lipid-lowering agents.
- Well-Tolerated: Associated with fewer muscle-related side effects compared to statins.
- Convenient Dosing: Once-daily oral dosing simplifies adherence.
