Bempedoic Acid
Atherosclerosis, Hyperlipoproteinemia Type II
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Adenosine Triphosphate-Citrate Lyase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Bempedoic Acid
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Click HereSummary
Bempedoic Acid is used to lower LDL cholesterol in adults with a condition known as hyperlipidemia, which includes a type known as familial hypercholesterolemia. It is also used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with established heart disease or those at high risk who cannot take statins.
Bempedoic Acid works by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver called adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase (ACL). This enzyme is involved in the production of cholesterol. By inhibiting this enzyme, Bempedoic Acid reduces the production of cholesterol, which leads to lower LDL cholesterol levels in the blood.
The usual daily dose of Bempedoic Acid for adults is 180 mg. It should be taken orally once daily, with or without food. The safety and effectiveness of Bempedoic Acid in children have not been established.
Common side effects of Bempedoic Acid include upper respiratory tract infection, muscle spasms, increased uric acid levels (hyperuricemia), and back pain. It may also cause gastrointestinal side effects such as abdominal pain and discomfort.
Bempedoic Acid is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential harm to the fetus or infant. It should not be used by patients with a history of serious hypersensitivity reactions to the drug. It can increase uric acid levels, which can lead to gout, and is associated with an increased risk of tendon rupture. Bempedoic Acid can also increase the concentration of certain statins, raising the risk of muscle-related side effects.
Indications and Purpose
How does Bempedoic Acid work?
Bempedoic Acid works by inhibiting the enzyme adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase (ACL) in the liver, which is involved in cholesterol synthesis. This inhibition reduces cholesterol production, leading to lower LDL cholesterol levels in the blood.
How does one know if Bempedoic Acid is working?
The benefit of Bempedoic Acid is evaluated by monitoring lipid levels, particularly LDL cholesterol, within 8 to 12 weeks after starting treatment. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are necessary to assess its effectiveness and adjust treatment as needed.
Is Bempedoic Acid effective?
Bempedoic Acid has been shown to effectively lower LDL cholesterol levels in adults with hyperlipidemia, including those with familial hypercholesterolemia. Clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing cardiovascular events in patients with established cardiovascular disease or at high risk.
What is Bempedoic Acid?
Bempedoic Acid is used to lower LDL cholesterol in adults with hyperlipidemia, including those with familial hypercholesterolemia, and to reduce cardiovascular risk in patients who cannot take statins. It works by inhibiting an enzyme in the liver responsible for cholesterol production, thereby lowering cholesterol levels in the blood.
What is Bempedoic Acid used for?
Bempedoic Acid is indicated for use in adults with primary hyperlipidemia, including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, to lower LDL cholesterol levels. It is also used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with established cardiovascular disease or at high risk who cannot take statins.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Bempedoic Acid?
Bempedoic Acid is typically used as a long-term treatment to manage cholesterol levels. The duration of use depends on individual health needs and should be determined by a healthcare provider.
How do I take Bempedoic Acid?
Bempedoic Acid should be taken orally once daily, with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions while taking this medication, but it is important to follow a cholesterol-lowering diet as advised by your healthcare provider.
How long does it take for Bempedoic Acid to start working?
Bempedoic Acid begins to lower LDL cholesterol levels within 4 weeks of starting treatment, with maximum effects typically observed by 12 weeks.
How should I store Bempedoic Acid?
Store Bempedoic Acid in its original package at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep it out of reach of children and away from excess heat and moisture.
What is the usual dose of Bempedoic Acid?
The usual daily dose of Bempedoic Acid for adults is 180 mg taken orally once daily. There is no established dosage for children as the safety and effectiveness of Bempedoic Acid in pediatric patients have not been established.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Bempedoic Acid be taken safely while breastfeeding?
It is unknown whether Bempedoic Acid is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Bempedoic Acid.
Can Bempedoic Acid be taken safely while pregnant?
Bempedoic Acid is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. There is insufficient data on its use in pregnant women, and it should be discontinued if pregnancy is planned or recognized.
Can I take Bempedoic Acid with other prescription drugs?
Bempedoic Acid can increase the concentration of simvastatin and pravastatin, raising the risk of muscle-related side effects. It is advised to avoid using Bempedoic Acid with simvastatin doses greater than 20 mg and pravastatin doses greater than 40 mg.
Is Bempedoic Acid safe for the elderly?
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness of Bempedoic Acid have been observed between elderly patients and younger adults. However, elderly patients should be monitored for side effects, especially if they have other health conditions.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Bempedoic Acid?
Bempedoic Acid is not known to limit the ability to exercise. However, if you experience muscle pain or weakness, which can be a side effect, consult your healthcare provider.
Who should avoid taking Bempedoic Acid?
Bempedoic Acid is contraindicated in patients with a history of serious hypersensitivity reactions to the drug. It may increase uric acid levels, leading to gout, and is associated with an increased risk of tendon rupture. Patients should be monitored for these conditions.