Bempedoic Acid and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Statin-Intolerant Patients

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and effective management of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is crucial in reducing cardiovascular risk. Statins are the first-line treatment for lowering LDL-C, but a significant subset of patient’s experiences statin intolerance, primarily due to muscle-related side effects. This has created an unmet need for alternative lipid-lowering therapies. This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of bempedoic acid, a novel ATP-citrate lyase inhibitor, in reducing LDL-C levels and improving cardiovascular outcomes in statin-intolerant patients. Additionally, it compares bempedoic acid with other non-statin lipid-lowering therapies to establish its clinical relevance. A systematic analysis of clinical trial data was conducted, focusing on LDL-C reduction, incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and reported adverse effects. Patient demographics, dosage, and baseline LDL-C levels were considered to assess the drug’s efficacy and safety. Bempedoic acid significantly reduced LDL-C levels in a dose-dependent manner, with the 240 mg dose showing a greater mean reduction (21.3%) compared to the 180 mg dose (18.5%). The incidence of MACE was lower in the 240 mg dose group, although the difference was not statistically significant. The drug demonstrated a favorable safety profile, with minimal muscle-related side effects and manageable adverse effects, even in higher weight categories. Bempedoic acid is an effective and well-tolerated alternative for lowering LDL-C in statin-intolerant patients. While its impact on long-term cardiovascular outcomes remains inconclusive, its overall efficacy and safety support its use in clinical practice. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term benefits and comparative effectiveness of bempedoic acid in diverse patient populations.