Bempedoic acid (brand name: NEXLETOL) is a cholesterol-lowering drug prescribed for the treatment of high cholesterol in adults with hyperlipidemia (high levels of fats in the blood). It is a pro-drug that is metabolized to an active form that inhibits an enzyme called ATP citrate lyase, which is involved in cholesterol synthesis. Bempedoic acid is used in combination with diet and other cholesterol-lowering drugs, such as statins, to reduce total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL) cholesterol in people who cannot take statins or who cannot reach their cholesterol target on statins.
Bempedoic acid, sold under the brand name Nilemdo, is a medication used to help lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, in adults with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Here's a detailed description of its key characteristics:
Purpose:
- Bempedoic acid is typically used in addition to other cholesterol-lowering medications like statins and ezetimibe, especially when these medications alone do not adequately lower LDL-C levels to recommended targets.
- ASCVD is a chronic condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular complications.
Mechanism of Action:
- Bempedoic acid belongs to a class of medications called ATP citrate lyase (ACL) inhibitors. It works by increasing the activity of an enzyme called ACL in the liver. This enzyme plays a crucial role in cholesterol synthesis. By enhancing ACL activity, bempedoic acid helps the liver remove more LDL-C from the bloodstream.
Administration:
- Bempedoic acid is administered orally (by mouth) in the form of capsules.
- The typical dosage and schedule are determined by the doctor based on individual factors like the patient's weight, overall health, and response to the medication, as well as their existing cholesterol-lowering regimen.
Important Considerations:
- Bempedoic acid can cause side effects, including:
- Uric acid increase: This can potentially increase the risk of gout attacks in susceptible individuals. Monitoring uric acid levels is crucial during treatment.
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Muscle aches and pains
- Joint pain
- Bempedoic acid is relatively new and long-term safety data is still accumulating. It is crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your doctor to determine if it is the right option for you.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding are contraindicated with bempedoic acid due to the potential risk of harm to the developing baby or infant.
Overall:
Bempedoic acid offers an additional option for managing LDL-C levels in adults with ASCVD when other medications are insufficient. However, it's important to consider the potential side effects, limited long-term data, and the need for careful monitoring during use. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine if bempedoic acid is the most appropriate approach for your individual cholesterol management plan.