Hyperlipidemia: What role do PCSK9 inhibitors play?

Abstract

PCSK9 inhibitors are a new and safe option of lowering LDL cholesterol. This article summarizes current recommendations for the use of PCSK9 inhibitors. Statins and ezetimibe are still the basis of cholesterol-lowering therapy. Through their use, the largest proportion of patients can be adequately treated. PCSK9 inhibitors should be used in patients at very high cardiovascular risk if, despite the maximum tolerated statin/ezetimibe therapy, an LDL-C reduction of more than 50 % would be needed to achieve the recommended LDL-C target. The use in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia is usually carried out according to this scheme as well. For statin intolerance, PCSK9 inhibitors should be considered in patients at very high cardiovascular risk who have not tolerated low doses of at least two different statins/ezetimibe.