Bempedoic acid is a medication prescribed to manage high cholesterol levels. This article explores common experiences and perspectives reported by patients, offering insights into what it might be like to take this treatment.
What Bempedoic Acid Is and Why It Is Prescribed
Bempedoic acid is an oral medication taken once daily, primarily used to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), often called “bad” cholesterol. It works by inhibiting ATP citrate lyase (ACL) in the liver, an enzyme involved in the body’s cholesterol production pathway. This action reduces cholesterol synthesis and increases LDL receptors on liver cells, helping to clear more LDL-C from the bloodstream.
The medication is marketed under the brand name Nexletol, and it is also available in a combination pill with ezetimibe, called Nexlizet. It is prescribed for adults with primary hyperlipidemia, including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH), or established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). This is particularly for those needing additional LDL-C lowering despite maximally tolerated statin therapy, or for patients who cannot tolerate statins. Bempedoic acid has also been shown to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction and coronary revascularization in adults unable to take recommended statin therapy.
Common Themes in Patient Experiences
Patients often report on bempedoic acid’s effectiveness in lowering cholesterol levels. Clinical trials indicate that bempedoic acid can reduce LDL-C levels by approximately 18% to 22.5% when used alone or in combination with other lipid-lowering therapies. Patients previously unable to tolerate statins due to muscle-related side effects have noted that bempedoic acid generally causes fewer such issues, which may be attributed to its liver-specific activation.
Patient reviews sometimes mention certain side effects. Common issues include muscle spasms, upper respiratory tract infections, joint pain, or back pain. More serious, though less frequent, side effects observed in studies include an increased risk of gout due to elevated uric acid levels and, in rare cases, tendon rupture.
The overall tolerability of bempedoic acid is a common theme. Many find the once-daily oral dosage convenient, contributing to ease of use. For individuals with statin intolerance, bempedoic acid offers an alternative to achieve cholesterol-lowering goals with a more manageable side effect profile.
When comparing bempedoic acid to other treatments, patients highlight its role as a non-statin option. For those who experience muscle-related side effects from statins, bempedoic acid can be a welcome alternative, as it does not appear to cause the same degree of muscle issues. Some reviews suggest that the combination of bempedoic acid with ezetimibe (Nexlizet) can lead to a greater reduction in LDL-C.
Interpreting Patient Reviews and Next Steps
Patient reviews offer insights into real-world experiences with bempedoic acid, providing perspectives on how the medication affects individuals. These accounts can be valuable for understanding the range of responses to the drug, from reported effectiveness in lowering cholesterol to the occurrence of various side effects.
Individual experiences can vary significantly. Patient reviews are not a substitute for clinical trial data, which involve controlled environments and large patient populations. Reviews do not account for a person’s complete medical history, other health conditions, or other medications they might be taking, all of which can influence how a drug affects them. Thus, reported outcomes may not be universal.
Any questions or concerns about bempedoic acid should be discussed with a healthcare provider. A doctor can offer personalized advice based on a patient’s specific health profile, including their cholesterol levels, other medical conditions, and current medications. This professional guidance ensures that treatment decisions are made with a comprehensive understanding of individual needs and potential risks.
Information gathered from patient reviews can serve as a starting point for conversations with a doctor. Patients can discuss what they have learned and express any concerns, allowing their healthcare provider to provide tailored recommendations. Shared decision-making between a patient and their doctor leads to treatment plans that are well-suited to the individual.