Cholesterol, a fatty substance found in every cell of our bodies, is essential for optimal functioning.
However, excessive levels can lead to fat deposits in artery walls, increasing the risks of heart disease and stroke.
Hormones, acting as the body’s chemical messengers, regulate how fats and proteins circulate within us.
Statins: Common but Not Perfect
To control high cholesterol levels, statins are commonly prescribed. They primarily work by reducing the liver’s production of cholesterol, thereby lowering levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, known as the “bad” cholesterol.
However, these medications have limitations. Some patients experience muscle and joint pain, making statins intolerable. Additionally, for some, statins do not sufficiently lower their LDL cholesterol levels.
Bempedoic Acid: A Promising Alternative
Recent research introduces a promising alternative for those seeking options beyond statins. A medication named bempedoic acid has emerged as a potential candidate, showing a reduction in the risk of cardiac events comparable to that of statins.
The research, supported by Esperion Therapeutics—the manufacturers of bempedoic acid—was presented at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting, ENDO 2023, in Chicago. The study, an analysis of the CLEAR Outcomes Trial, focused on patients who could not tolerate statins.
Initial results showed that bempedoic acid lowered LDL cholesterol levels by an average of 21% and decreased the occurrence of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, by 13%.
However, it was initially unclear if the cardiovascular benefits of bempedoic acid were equivalent to those achieved by reducing LDL cholesterol with statins.
Subsequent analysis clarified that participants taking bempedoic acid had a decreased likelihood of experiencing major cardiac events compared to those on a placebo.
This reduced risk was similar to the decrease observed in individuals using statins for comparable LDL reductions.
Dr. A. Michael Lincoff, M.D., co-author of the study and Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic, emphasized the global significance of cardiovascular diseases, stating, “Cardiovascular disease remains the most prevalent cause of mortality and morbidity in the world.”
Innovations like bempedoic acid are crucial in reducing the risks associated with high cholesterol.
Dr. Lincoff added, “Our findings indicate bempedoic acid may be a valuable therapy for patients who cannot tolerate adequate doses of statins or who need to further lower their LDL cholesterol levels.”
This development suggests that different classes of cholesterol medications can provide similar cardiovascular benefits, unlike diabetes medications, which may have varying impacts on cardiovascular health despite similar blood sugar improvements.
The introduction of bempedoic acid marks a significant advancement in managing heart health, especially for those intolerant to statins or needing additional cholesterol lowering.
This breakthrough offers hope for many at risk of cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death worldwide.
Continuous research and innovation in medicine are essential, and the development of alternatives like bempedoic acid enhances our ability to combat cardiovascular diseases, paving the way for a healthier future.
If you care about heart health, please read studies about top foods to love for a stronger heart, and why oranges may help fight obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
For more health information, please see recent studies about simple guide to a 7-day diabetes meal plan, and why you should add black beans to your plate.
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