Why in News?
The US FDA approved Lipfendra (enlicitide) , making it the world's first once-daily oral PCSK9 inhibitor for adults with high cholesterol.
Key Points
Lipfendra was developed by the pharmaceutical company Merck.
Trials showed it reduced LDL cholesterol by 56% to 60% and it is meant to be used along with statins and a healthy diet.
It is approved for adults with hypercholesterolemia, including inherited forms like familial hypercholesterolemia.
It offers an alternative for patients who need extra cholesterol reduction but prefer a daily pill over regular injections.
Exam Connect
PCSK9 inhibitors → drugs that lower LDL by targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 → earlier available only as subcutaneous injections
LDL → 'bad cholesterol' → causes plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) in arteries → major risk factor for heart disease