Bempedoic Acid: A New Drug for an Old Problem.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Therapeutics
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Clinical Trial Analysis

Background:

• Statin therapy is the primary treatment for cardiovascular event prevention.
• A significant patient population experiences statin-associated muscle symptoms, limiting adherence.
• Alternative lipid-lowering agents are crucial for managing hyperlipidemia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy of bempedoic acid.
• To assess bempedoic acid's role in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction.
• To evaluate bempedoic acid as an alternative for patients intolerant to statins.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted for phase III clinical trials of bempedoic acid.
• Searched articles published in English from January 2000 to June 2020.
• Included studies related to FDA approval, safety, and efficacy.

Main Results:

• Bempedoic acid demonstrates safety and efficacy in lowering LDL-C levels.
• It is a viable option for primary and secondary cardiovascular event prevention.
• Considered a potential adjunct therapy for LDL-C reduction, especially for statin-intolerant patients.

Conclusions:

• Bempedoic acid provides an additional therapeutic option for lowering LDL-C.
• It is suitable for patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or familial hyperlipidemia.
• Further research on long-term cardiovascular outcomes is ongoing.