Emerging Options for Elevated LDL Cholesterol: Focus on PCSK9 Inhibitors

Guest: Deepak Bhatt, MD, MPH

High levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is the most common form of dyslipidemia and is a significant risk factor for CVD. Statin therapy has long been the mainstay for managing dyslipidemia; however, only 48% of adults with elevated LDL-C levels have received lipid-lowering therapy, and only 33% have reached the specified guideline goal. In recent years, pharmacologic inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has been investigated for its potential as a lipid-lowering therapy and 2 monoclonal antibodies that inhibit PCSK9 have recently been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.The goal of this activity is to provide information for the clinician that will guide optimal, educated, and appropriate use of PCSK9 inhibitors for managing elevated LDL.