FDA approves Evolocumab (Repatha) to treat high cholesterol:

More Presentations from Dr.Naina Mohamed Pakkir Maideen

©   On 27^th Aug 2015, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Evolocumab (Repatha) injection to treat high cholesterol.

©   Evolocumab is the second PCSK9 (Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin Kexin type9) inhibitor.

©   Evolocumab (Repatha) is approved to treat adult patients with…

Ø Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH)

Ø Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH)

Ø Who require additional lowering of LDL cholesterol (i.e Whose cholesterol is not controlled by diet and Statin treatment)

©    The recommended dose of Evolocumab for adults, is 140 mg every two weeks or 420 mg once a month.

Mechanism of Action:

©   Evolocumab (Repatha) binds to a protein called Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin Kexin type 9 (PCSK9) and inhibits its binding to low density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR) at the surface of hepatocytes. When PCSK9 binds to cell surface LDLR, lysosomal degradation of LDLR occurs. But, inhibition of PCSK9 binding to LDLR by Evolocumab prevents the lysosomal degradation and increases the number of LDLR available to clear LDL particles leading to lowering of LDL cholesterol.

Adverse Drug Reactions:

©  The most common ADRs noted in the clinical trial participants being treated with Evolocumab, include Nasopharyngitis, Upper respiratory tract infection, Flu like symptoms, Back pain, Redness, pain, or bruising  at the injection site and Allergic reactions (Rash and hives).