Scientists have now invented a new medicine to control cholesterol which can help in reducing the level of bad cholesterol by 60 percent.
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Cholesterol is a rapidly increasing disease in the new generation, which is due to poor diet and deteriorating lifestyle. There are two types of cholesterol. One is LDL cholesterol, which is called bad cholesterol, which is dangerous for the heart. The other is HDL cholesterol, which works to control cholesterol in the body. This cholesterol reduces the risk of heart attack and heart disease. If bad cholesterol is not controlled, it causes heart disease. Statin drugs are used to control it.
Statin is a drug that reduces blood cholesterol by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver. Scientists have now developed a new drug to control cholesterol that can help reduce bad cholesterol levels by up to 60 percent.
Many people don’t see their bad cholesterol (LDL) levels drop despite taking statins. Statin drugs control cholesterol levels in the body by reducing cholesterol production in the liver, but their effectiveness is limited in some patients. Now, a new experimental pill has shown in clinical trials that when given along with a statin, it reduces cholesterol levels.
How does the risk of heart attack increase?
High levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood cause plaque to accumulate in the arteries. This plaque gradually obstructs blood flow and causes heart attacks. The new pill, Anlicitide, blocks a protein called PCSK9 in the liver. When this protein is blocked, bad cholesterol levels rapidly decrease.
Previously, treatment was done with injections, now a pill will make things easier.
Dr. Balbir Singh, Chairman of Max Healthcare, explained that previously, PCSK9 inhibitors like Evolocumab were used as injections, which are also available in India. These are given every two weeks or once a month and are capable of reducing LDL by up to 70%. If the same effect as the injection is achieved in the form of a pill (daily pill), it would be much easier and more convenient for patients. A pill, instead of an injection, would be a major relief for patients, but we need to see if it reduces the risk of heart attack as quickly.
How the research yielded surprising results
The Phase 3 clinical trial included 2,912 adults with an average age of 63. The study was conducted in 14 countries between August 2023 and July 2025. According to the results, patients who took analcitide along with their regular statin medication experienced a 60% reduction in LDL levels over 24 weeks. Those who took only a placebo experienced no improvement. The study results were presented at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions. Drug manufacturer Merck plans to apply for approval from the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) next year.
Will PCSK9 pills be taken alone in the future?
Dr. Ranjan Shetty, lead cardiologist at Sparsh Hospital, Bengaluru, explains that statin drugs typically reduce LDL by up to 40%, but this may not be enough for some patients. Many patients have a genetic condition called hypercholesterolemia, which causes excessively high cholesterol. In such cases, statins alone are not sufficient. Certain other medications or supplements can also reduce their effectiveness.
Can the new pill replace statins?
Dr. Balbir Singh says the new drug cannot replace statins. It should be taken alongside statins, as statins do the heavy lifting. However, the pill will be less expensive and more convenient than injections.
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