All available PCSK9 treatment options in our therapeutic area are delivered by injection, but four out of five patients prefer a pill.1 That’s why Esperion is developing a small molecule oral PCSK9 inhibitor that can be taken as a tablet.
PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) is an enzyme responsible for regulating low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors. PCSK9 inhibitors stop LDL receptors from being broken down, increasing the number of LDL receptors present to remove cholesterol from the blood. Current approved PCSK9 inhibitors – delivered as injections – have proven to be out of reach for many patients.2,3 A tablet oral PCSK9 inhibitor would fill a key gap in non-statin treatment options for patients, between statins and shots.
PCSK9 is a validated target for the treatment of dyslipidemia and reduction of cardiovascular risk, with demonstrated efficacy and safety in various high-risk CVD populations.5,6