In a landmark announcement, Professor Stephen Nicholls, Director of Monash University’s Victorian Heart Institute and the Victorian Heart Hospital, revealed the successful trial of a breakthrough drug called Muvalaplin.
This is the first oral medication specifically developed to target Lipoprotein(a) — often referred to as “Lp(a)” or “LP little a” — a largely genetic form of cholesterol that has long been linked to increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Significant Impact
High levels of Lp(a) affect one in five people worldwide and, until now, no approved treatment has been available on the market.
The drug Muvalaplin has demonstrated efficacy in lowering Lp(a) levels by up to 65%, thereby representing a significant advancement in cardiovascular treatment.
The medication functions by disrupting the formation of Lp(a) in the body.
More Sticky, More Risky
Lp(a) is somewhat similar to LDL cholesterol — often called ‘bad cholesterol.’ However, Lp(a) is stickier, making it more prone to causing blockages and blood clots in arteries.
Unlike LDL cholesterol, levels of Lp(a) are largely determined by genetics and are not significantly influenced by lifestyle factors like diet and exercise.
This makes it a particularly challenging substance to control through conventional means.
The Long Journey
Although Lp(a) was discovered nearly 60 years ago, the lack of effective treatments has left a significant gap in cardiovascular risk management.
“When it comes to treating high Lp(a), a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, our clinicians currently have no effective tools in their kit,” said Professor Nicholls.
Until now, advancements had been in the form of injection-based therapies, which are not yet on the market and are less accessible for patients.
Accessibility and Implications
Professor Nicholls emphasized that Muvalaplin is a “gamechanger” not only for its efficacy but also for its form. As an oral tablet, the drug promises to be more accessible for patients.
“Lp(a) is essentially a silent killer with no available treatment, this drug changes that,” he added.
Further Information
The findings were presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress in Amsterdam and have also been published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
This breakthrough stands as a significant advancement in the field of cardiovascular medicine, providing newfound hope for millions of people worldwide at risk due to high levels of Lp(a).
The drug not only offers a solution to a longstanding medical challenge but also promises broader accessibility due to its oral form.
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The study was published in JAMA.
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