Bempedoic acid: new evidence and recommendations on use

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading global cause of death.
• Lowering LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) is crucial for preventing cardiovascular events.
• Current therapies may not achieve target LDL-C levels in many patients.

Approach:

• Bempedoic acid, a novel ATP Citrate Lyase (ACL) inhibitor, targets hepatic cholesterol biosynthesis.
• Phase 3 studies support its use in specific patient groups.
• Approved for statin-intolerant patients or as add-on therapy for familial hypercholesterolemia/ASCVD.

Key Points:

• Bempedoic acid provides additional LDL-C reduction in targeted patient populations.
• It is efficient, well-tolerated, affordable, and available.
• Ongoing research is defining its role in comprehensive lipid management.

Conclusions:

• Bempedoic acid represents a valuable therapeutic option for managing dyslipidemia.
• Its efficacy and tolerability profile support its use in achieving LDL-C goals.
• Further research will clarify its optimal place in lipid-lowering strategies.