Cholesterol lowering treatment

Service Description

Leqvio (inclisiran) — clear, patient-friendly overview What it is Leqvio (generic: inclisiran) is a twice-yearly cholesterol-lowering treatment that uses a gene-silencing mechanism (small interfering RNA) to reduce levels of LDL-cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol). It is given as a subcutaneous injection — not an infusion — and is designed for people who still have high LDL despite other therapies or who cannot tolerate other treatments. How it works (short version) Inclisiran “silences” the liver protein PCSK9, which helps the liver remove more LDL from the blood. Reduced PCSK9 activity means lower circulating LDL-cholesterol. Who may be offered Leqvio People who haven’t reached LDL targets despite maximally tolerated statin therapy (or other lipid-lowering drugs). People at high cardiovascular risk (for example, those with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease). People with genetic causes of high cholesterol (e.g., familial hypercholesterolaemia) when additional LDL lowering is needed. How it’s given Administered by a healthcare professional as a subcutaneous injection (commonly abdomen, upper arm or thigh). Typical schedule: first dose → second dose at 3 months → then every 6 months thereafter. What to expect LDL cholesterol is typically reduced by about 50%, with measurable effects often seen within ~90 days. Before starting, clinicians usually check baseline blood tests (lipids plus routine safety checks such as liver and kidney function and diabetes status). A blood test is commonly repeated at the 3-month review to confirm response and safety. Common side effects & safety notes Generally well tolerated. The most common effects are injection-site reactions (pain, redness, swelling) and occasional headache or flu-like symptoms. Serious allergic reactions are rare. Not suitable for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding — tell your clinician if this applies. Always tell your healthcare team about other medicines and existing medical conditions before starting. Why patients & clinicians choose it Long-acting and convenient: only two initial doses then once every six months. Effective for patients who need additional LDL reduction beyond statins or who cannot take other lipid-lowering drugs.