Medical science continues to advance in managing high cholesterol, offering new treatment options. Elevated cholesterol levels pose a substantial risk to cardiovascular health. Understanding these developments helps individuals and their healthcare providers make informed decisions about managing this widespread condition.
Understanding High Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance present in all body cells and is necessary for building healthy cells and hormones. It travels through the blood attached to proteins, forming lipoproteins. There are different types of cholesterol, with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) often referred to as “bad” cholesterol.
High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This plaque hardens and narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart and other parts of the body. Over time, this can result in serious health issues such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke.
The 6-Month Injection: An Overview
A notable advancement in cholesterol management is Leqvio, a medication administered via injection every six months. Leqvio contains the active drug inclisiran. It represents a unique approach to lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.
The distinct feature of Leqvio is its convenient dosing schedule. After an initial dose, a second dose is given three months later, followed by subsequent doses just twice a year, specifically every six months. This schedule simplifies long-term adherence for patients compared to treatments requiring more frequent administration. It is designed to work alongside existing cholesterol management strategies, often including statin therapy and a healthy diet.
How the Injection Lowers Cholesterol
Leqvio works through RNA interference. It is a small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy. This innovative mechanism targets the liver.
Once administered, inclisiran enters liver cells and specifically targets the messenger RNA (mRNA) that carries instructions for producing a protein called PCSK9. By directing the breakdown of this mRNA, inclisiran effectively prevents the liver from creating the PCSK9 protein. Less PCSK9 means that the liver cells can increase the number of LDL-C receptors on their surface. These receptors are responsible for binding to and removing LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, thereby lowering overall LDL-C levels.
Who Qualifies for This Treatment?
Leqvio is prescribed for adults needing additional lowering of their low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. This includes individuals diagnosed with primary hyperlipidemia, which encompasses both heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) and non-familial forms. HeFH is a genetic condition that causes very high LDL-C levels from birth.
The medication is also indicated for adults with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), a condition characterized by plaque buildup in the arteries. For these patients, Leqvio is typically used as an add-on therapy when they are already receiving maximally tolerated statin therapy but still need further LDL-C reduction. It can also be considered for patients who are intolerant to statins or for whom statins are contraindicated.
Receiving the Injection and Patient Experience
The Leqvio injection is administered subcutaneously, meaning it is given just under the skin. This procedure is performed by a healthcare professional. Common injection sites include the abdomen, upper arm, or thigh.
Patients receive a 284 mg dose using a single pre-filled syringe. After the initial dose, another dose is administered three months later, followed by subsequent doses every six months. This twice-yearly schedule can significantly enhance treatment adherence, making it easier for patients to manage their cholesterol over the long term. While some mild injection site reactions like pain or redness may occur, these are generally transient and resolve without lasting issues.