The new mechanism of action with messenger RNA can halve Ldl levels in severe and selected patients. Experts: Important for adherence to therapy
The Italian Medicines Agency has approved the reimbursement of a therapy that can halve bad cholesterol (LDL) levels in patients with severe hypercholesterolemia. The drug, (the active ingredient inclisiran), is administered with two injections per year subcutaneously: after the first injection, the next dose is given three months later and then every six months thereafter.
Move on to adherence to therapy
This is the first therapy based on small-interfering Rna (si Rna) acting by increasing the liver’s ability to absorb cholesterol LDL, the main cause of atherosclerosis, the most widespread vascular disease in the world responsible for strokes, heart attacks and other coronary events. This is a therapeutic innovation that we believe has the potential to overcome the current challenges of adherence and persistence to therapy, thanks to subcutaneous administration on a six-monthly basis. Furio Covilicchi, president of the National Association of Hospital Cardiologists (Anmco). This parent molecule of a new class of highly innovative drugs that directly target the root of atherosclerotic disease rather than its symptoms adds Pasquale Perrone Filardielected president of the Italian Society of Cardiology (Sic).
How does it work
The novelty of this drug is its mechanism of action and falls into the class of therapeutic agents Rnai (Rna interference), drugs that silence Rna messengers (mRna). It is a small double-stranded interfering RNA (siRna) with a high affinity for the liver, in which it reduces the levels of a protein called Pcsk9, which is involved in the metabolism of cholesterol. This mechanism increases the liver’s ability to absorb LDL cholesterol and leads to a reduction in LDL cholesterol levels.
To whom indicated
In Italy, the new drug indicated, in addition to the diet, in combination with a statin or a statin with other oral lipid-lowering therapies in patients unable to achieve the goals for LDL with the maximum tolerated dose of a statin, or as monotherapy or in combination with other lipid-lowering therapies in patients intolerant to statins or for whom a statin is contraindicated.
October 12, 2022 (change October 12, 2022 | 19:47)
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