Lipfendra: Experts say that statin drugs will still remain the first choice of treatment, because they are cheap and their effectiveness has been proven for many years.

Ways to control high cholesterol

PCSK9 Inhibitor Oral Tablet For Cholesterol: Statin drugs have long been considered the most effective treatment for controlling bad cholesterol. However, these drugs do not work equally well in every patient. Those at high risk for heart attack or other heart diseases may require additional medications. Until now, the only option for such patients was expensive injections, but now a new pill has emerged as a ray of hope.

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a new drug called Lipfendra. This once-daily tablet can help reduce bad cholesterol levels in the body by 50 to 60 percent. This drug belongs to the PCSK9 inhibitor class, which works differently from statins.

PCSK9 blocks the protein

While statins slow the production of cholesterol in the liver, Lipfendra blocks the PCSK9 protein in the body. This protein normally destroys bad cholesterol receptors. When it is blocked, the liver begins to remove more bad cholesterol from the blood, rapidly reducing bad cholesterol levels. This drug is considered especially beneficial for people who have previously had a heart attack, undergone angioplasty or stenting, or have coronary artery disease. Additionally, people with high bad cholesterol or a family history of heart disease at a young age may also benefit from it.

Increases the risk of heart disease by accumulating fat

According to Dr. Ambuj Roy, Professor in the Department of Cardiology at AIIMS, Delhi, Lipfendra not only reduces LDL, but also reduces a protein called ApoB by approximately 50 percent. ApoB indicates the number of particles that accumulate fat in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. Its levels are higher in Indians than in Western countries, so its reduction is considered significant.

However, experts say that statin drugs will remain the first choice of treatment because they are inexpensive and have proven effectiveness over many years. For patients who don't respond to statins or experience adverse effects, this new pill could be a better option. Currently, the drug has been approved based on its ability to lower LDL. Studies are ongoing to determine its effectiveness in reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

What needs to be done about this?

Experts recommend that everyone between the ages of 18 and 29 should have their cholesterol checked at least once. Those with diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, or a family history of heart disease should have regular checkups as advised by their doctor. Along with medications, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and abstinence from smoking are also essential for a healthy heart.