A new study conducted by Sanofi and Regeneron showed promising results in reducing the risk of severe cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes.

The drug in question, Praluent, is a PCSK9 inhibitor that is already approved for use in treating high cholesterol levels. The study, which was presented at the European Society of Cardiology congress in Munich, Germany, could lead to a new indication for the drug.

What is Praluent?

Praluent, also known as alirocumab, is a PCSK9 inhibitor that is used to treat high cholesterol levels. PCSK9 is a protein that contributes to the regulation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood.

Praluent works by inhibiting the activity of PCSK9, which leads to a decrease in LDL cholesterol levels. It is administered through injection every 2 to 4 weeks and is usually prescribed for patients who have not achieved their target cholesterol levels through diet and statin therapy alone.

The Study

The study involved over 18,000 patients with a history of a recent heart attack or stroke and elevated LDL cholesterol levels receiving either Praluent or placebo.

The results showed that patients who received Praluent had a significantly lower risk of experiencing major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, compared to those who received placebo. The study found that Praluent reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events by 15%.

Implications of the Study

The results of the study could have major implications for the use of Praluent in preventing cardiovascular events. Currently, the drug is only approved for use in treating high cholesterol levels.

However, if approved for use in preventing major cardiovascular events, Praluent could become an important tool in reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes among high-risk patients.

Side Effects of Praluent

Like all medications, Praluent can cause side effects. The most common side effects reported in clinical trials include:.

Injection site reactions, such as redness, itching, swelling, and pain
Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and muscle aches
Nausea

Rare but serious side effects of Praluent can include an allergic reaction, which can cause difficulty breathing and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Patients who experience any of these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

The new study conducted by Sanofi and Regeneron showed promising results in reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, among high-risk patients.

If approved for use in preventing major cardiovascular events, Praluent could become an important tool in reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes in this patient population. However, as with all medications, Praluent can cause side effects, and patients should talk to their doctor about the risks and benefits of taking this medication.