Nilemdo: A New Option for Lowering Cholesterol
What is Nilemdo?
Nilemdo (bempedoic acid) is a new, first-in-class, oral medication for lowering cholesterol. It is used in patients with primary hypercholesterolaemia or mixed dyslipidaemia who are unable to take statins or who have not achieved their cholesterol goals with statins.
How does Nilemdo work?
Nilemdo works by inhibiting ATP-citrate lyase, an enzyme involved in the production of cholesterol. By blocking this enzyme, Nilemdo reduces the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver.
What are the benefits of Nilemdo?
Nilemdo has been shown to be effective in lowering LDL-cholesterol, the "bad" cholesterol. In clinical trials, Nilemdo reduced LDL-cholesterol by up to 28% when used as monotherapy and up to 38% when used in combination with ezetimibe.
Nilemdo is also well-tolerated. The most common side effects are diarrhoea, nausea, and muscle pain. These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few weeks.
Who should take Nilemdo?
Nilemdo is recommended for adults with primary hypercholesterolaemia or mixed dyslipidaemia who are unable to take statins or who have not achieved their cholesterol goals with statins.
How is Nilemdo taken?
Nilemdo is taken once daily with or without food. The usual starting dose is 180 mg. The dose may be increased to 360 mg daily if needed.
What are the risks of Nilemdo?
The most serious risk of Nilemdo is liver damage. This risk is small, but it is important to be aware of. Liver damage can occur in people who take Nilemdo for long periods of time or who have other liver problems.
Other risks of Nilemdo include diarrhoea, nausea, and muscle pain. These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few weeks.
Conclusion
Nilemdo is a new, effective, and well-tolerated medication for lowering cholesterol. It is a good option for people who are unable to take statins or who have not achieved their cholesterol goals with statins.
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