Statins remain the standard treatment for high LDL cholesterol, reducing levels by about 30–50% and lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes. However, newer therapies are offering additional options for patients who cannot achieve target cholesterol levels with statins alone.
PCSK9-targeting drugs such as evolocumab and alirocumab can further reduce LDL cholesterol by around 50–60%. Meanwhile, inclisiran, which uses small interfering RNA to suppress PCSK9 production, can lower LDL by about 50% with only two maintenance injections a year.
First Oral PCSK9 Inhibitor
As per the Hindustan Times, the latest development is enlicitide, a once-daily oral PCSK9 inhibitor. Clinical trials showed that it reduced LDL cholesterol by more than 55%. The drug is not yet available in India, although the country has approved a Phase 3 trial.
Gene Editing Could Offer Longer-Term Control
Beyond medicines, researchers are also testing gene-editing approaches. Experimental therapies such as VERVE-102 and CTX310 aim to permanently switch off genes involved in cholesterol regulation. Early trials have shown substantial LDL reductions after a single infusion.
However, these approaches remain experimental. Therefore, experts continue to recommend statins as the foundation of cholesterol management, while newer therapies may benefit high-risk patients who need greater or faster LDL reduction.