Bempedoic Acid and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Statin-Intolerant Patients

This randomized, placebo-controlled trial evaluated bempedoic acid, a liver-activated ATP citrate lyase inhibitor for its cardiovascular benefits in statin-intolerant patients. Among 13,970 participants across 32 countries, bempedoic acid significantly lowered LDL cholesterol levels by ~21% and reduced the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization (HR 0.87; P=0.004). Secondary endpoints like myocardial infarction and revascularization also showed favorable risk reductions. Adverse events were generally similar to placebo, with slightly higher rates of gout, renal events, and elevated hepatic enzymes. The trial supports bempedoic acid as a viable alternative for patients unable or unwilling to take statins.

This randomized, placebo-controlled trial evaluated bempedoic acid, a liver-activated ATP citrate lyase inhibitor for its cardiovascular benefits in statin-intolerant patients. Among 13,970 participants across 32 countries, bempedoic acid significantly lowered LDL cholesterol levels by ~21% and reduced the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization (HR 0.87; P=0.004). Secondary endpoints like myocardial infarction and revascularization also showed favorable risk reductions. Adverse events were generally similar to placebo, with slightly higher rates of gout, renal events, and elevated hepatic enzymes. The trial supports bempedoic acid as a viable alternative for patients unable or unwilling to take statins.