The new cholesterol drug that is not a statin is Nexletol (bempedoic acid).
Understanding Nexletol (Bempedoic Acid)
Nexletol, also known by its generic name bempedoic acid, is a medication specifically developed to help lower cholesterol levels. It offers a crucial alternative for individuals who cannot tolerate traditional statin medications or require further cholesterol reduction in addition to statins and lifestyle changes.
Why it's a Statin Alternative
Nexletol functions differently from statins to decrease levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. This distinct mechanism makes it a valuable option for particular patient populations:
- Statin Intolerance: It is an ideal choice for patients who experience intolerable side effects from statins, which may prevent them from continuing their cholesterol-lowering therapy.
- Need for Additional Lowering: For individuals whose cholesterol levels remain elevated despite being on statin therapy and implementing healthy lifestyle modifications, Nexletol can be added to their treatment plan to achieve better cholesterol control.
This drug helps to manage cholesterol effectively, providing a beneficial path toward improved cardiovascular health, especially for those with limited options through conventional treatments. Further details on its role as a statin alternative can be found on health information platforms like Verywell Health.
Key Benefits and Considerations
Nexletol represents a significant advancement in cholesterol management because it provides a non-statin approach. This means it can help patients reach their cholesterol targets without necessarily encountering some of the more common side effects associated with statins. As an oral medication, it also offers a convenient option for ongoing management of high cholesterol.
