Bempedoic Acid

Bempedoic Acid: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More

Bempedoic acid is a breakthrough medication for managing cholesterol levels in individuals who cannot achieve their lipid targets through diet, exercise, or statins alone. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Bempedoic acid, its uses, dosage, side effects, interactions, and benefits.

What is Bempedoic Acid?

Bempedoic acid is a first-in-class oral medication used to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). It works by inhibiting adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase (ACL), a key enzyme in the cholesterol synthesis pathway. By targeting this enzyme, Bempedoic acid reduces cholesterol production in the liver and lowers circulating LDL-C levels.

Approved by the FDA in 2020, Bempedoic acid is primarily indicated for patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or familial hypercholesterolemia who require additional LDL-C lowering.

Uses of Bempedoic Acid

Bempedoic acid is used to:

1. Lower LDL Cholesterol Levels:

In adults with ASCVD or heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) who need additional LDL-C reduction despite the use of maximally tolerated statins.

2. Reduce Cardiovascular Risk:

By lowering LDL-C levels, Bempedoic acid indirectly reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events.

3. Statin Intolerance:

Provides an alternative or adjunctive therapy for patients who cannot tolerate high-dose statins due to side effects like muscle pain.

Dosage of Bempedoic Acid

The dosage of Bempedoic acid is straightforward and easy to follow.

Standard Dosage:

Adults:
The recommended dose is 180 mg taken orally once daily, with or without food.

Special Considerations:

No dose adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate renal or hepatic impairment.
It is often prescribed alongside other lipid-lowering therapies such as ezetimibe or statins for optimal cholesterol reduction.

Missed Dose:

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Side Effects of Bempedoic Acid

While Bempedoic acid is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects.

Common Side Effects:

Muscle spasms or pain
Upper respiratory tract infections
Elevated liver enzymes (transaminases)
Back pain
Abdominal pain or discomfort

Severe Side Effects:

Tendon Rupture or Injury: Increased risk, particularly in older adults or those taking corticosteroids.
Hyperuricemia (Elevated Uric Acid): May lead to gout in susceptible individuals.
Liver Toxicity: Persistent elevation of liver enzymes requires monitoring and may necessitate discontinuation.

Patients should contact their healthcare provider if they experience severe or persistent side effects.

Interaction with Other Medicines

Bempedoic acid interacts with specific medications, making it important to inform healthcare providers about all drugs and supplements being taken.

1. Statins:

Can be combined with statins, but care should be taken when used with high-intensity statins like simvastatin or pravastatin, as this may increase the risk of muscle-related side effects.

2. Uric Acid–Lowering Medications:

May require dose adjustment in patients prone to hyperuricemia or gout.

3. Anticoagulants:

No significant interactions with warfarin or other anticoagulants, but regular monitoring is advised.

4. Other Lipid-Lowering Agents:

Works synergistically with ezetimibe or PCSK9 inhibitors to achieve greater LDL-C reduction.

Patients should avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless cleared by their healthcare provider, as it may influence drug metabolism.

Benefits of Bempedoic Acid

1. Effective LDL-C Reduction:

Lowers LDL-C by 15-20% when used alone and up to 40% in combination with ezetimibe.

2. Alternative for Statin Intolerance:

Provides a non-statin option for patients unable to tolerate statins due to muscle-related side effects.

3. Once-Daily Dosing:

Simplifies treatment regimens, improving adherence.

4. Minimal Systemic Side Effects:

Targeted action in the liver reduces systemic exposure and minimizes side effects compared to statins.

5. Cardiovascular Protection:

Offers a promising addition to existing therapies for reducing cardiovascular risks.

FAQs About Bempedoic Acid

1. What is Bempedoic acid used for?

Bempedoic acid is used to lower LDL cholesterol levels in adults with ASCVD or familial hypercholesterolemia who need additional LDL-C reduction.

2. How does Bempedoic acid work?

It inhibits the ACL enzyme in the liver, reducing cholesterol production and lowering LDL cholesterol levels.

3. Can Bempedoic acid be used with statins?

Yes, it is often prescribed alongside statins or other lipid-lowering therapies to enhance cholesterol reduction.

4. Who should not take Bempedoic acid?

Patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment, or those with a history of gout or tendon disorders, should use Bempedoic acid cautiously.

5. What are the side effects of Bempedoic acid?

Common side effects include muscle spasms, back pain, upper respiratory infections, and elevated liver enzymes.

6. Is Bempedoic acid safe during pregnancy?

The safety of Bempedoic acid during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not well established. It should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

7. How long does it take for Bempedoic acid to work?

Significant LDL-C reduction can be seen within 2-4 weeks of starting therapy.

8. Can Bempedoic acid cause gout?

Yes, it may increase uric acid levels, potentially triggering gout in susceptible individuals.

9. What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose.

10. Can Bempedoic acid replace statins?

It is not intended to replace statins but can be used as an alternative or in combination for patients who cannot tolerate statins.

Brand Names of Bempedoic Acid

Nexletol® (Esperion Therapeutics)

Conclusion

Bempedoic acid is a valuable addition to the arsenal of lipid-lowering therapies, especially for patients who need additional LDL-C reduction or cannot tolerate high-dose statins. Its targeted mechanism, once-daily dosing, and effectiveness in reducing cardiovascular risks make it a promising option for long-term cholesterol management.