Pitavastatin (NK-104), a new HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor

Pitavastatin calcium (NK-104) is a new synthetic hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor (statin). Animal studies suggest that, in addition to reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the drug may produce marked reductions in triglyceride-rich particles (very-low-density [VLDL] and intermediate-density lipoproteins [IDL]). It is not metabolized by the common cytochrome P-450 3A4 enzyme, possibly reducing the risk for drug interactions. Early studies suggest that it may be quite useful for treating common dyslipidemias (isolated elevations of LDL cholesterol and combined disorders with elevations of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides). Such improvements in lipid profiles are proven to have positive effects on cardiovascular risk. Human studies are under way to further elucidate the effects of the drug and procure approval by various regulatory bodies. (c) 2001 Prous Science. All rights reserved.