What does repatha do
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Understanding the Role of Repatha (Evolocumab) in Hypercholesterolemia Treatment
Introduction to Repatha (Evolocumab)
Repatha, also known by its generic name evolocumab, is a fully human monoclonal antibody developed by Amgen. It has been approved for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, particularly in patients who do not achieve sufficient LDL-C reduction with statins and other lipid-lowering therapies 124.
Mechanism of Action: PCSK9 Inhibition
Targeting PCSK9
Evolocumab works by targeting and inhibiting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), a protein that regulates the degradation of low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDL-R) on the liver cells. By inhibiting PCSK9, evolocumab increases the number of LDL receptors available to clear LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) from the bloodstream, thereby significantly lowering LDL-C levels 125.
Administration and Dosage
Repatha is administered via subcutaneous injection, with common dosages being 140 mg every two weeks or 420 mg once a month 26. This flexibility in dosing helps accommodate patient preferences and treatment plans.
Clinical Efficacy and Safety
LDL-C Reduction
Clinical trials have demonstrated that evolocumab can reduce LDL-C levels by approximately 50-60% when used in combination with statins or as monotherapy in statin-intolerant patients 236. This reduction is significant compared to placebo and other lipid-lowering agents like ezetimibe .
Long-term Efficacy and Safety
Long-term studies have shown that the efficacy of evolocumab in lowering LDL-C is maintained over time, and it is generally well-tolerated by patients 25. The FOURIER trial highlighted that evolocumab not only reduces LDL-C levels but also decreases the incidence of major cardiovascular events by 15% in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease .
Indications and Usage
Primary Hypercholesterolemia and Mixed Dyslipidemia
Repatha is indicated for adults with primary hypercholesterolemia (both heterozygous familial and non-familial) or mixed dyslipidemia as an adjunct to diet and other lipid-lowering therapies 14.
Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia
It is also approved for use in patients aged 12 years and older with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, a condition characterized by extremely high levels of LDL-C that are difficult to manage with conventional therapies alone 14.
Statin-Intolerant Patients
For patients who are intolerant to statins, evolocumab offers a viable alternative to achieve LDL-C reduction and manage hypercholesterolemia effectively 26.
Conclusion
Repatha (evolocumab) represents a significant advancement in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, particularly for patients who are unable to achieve their LDL-C targets with statins and other lipid-lowering therapies. By inhibiting PCSK9, Repatha effectively lowers LDL-C levels and reduces the risk of cardiovascular events, making it a valuable option in the management of high cholesterol 125.
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