Heart drug fails despite cutting cholesterol particle

Experimental drug fails major test

An experimental medicine that reduces lipoprotein(a), a blood particle linked to heart attacks and strokes, failed to protect volunteers in a closely watched study, researchers reported Saturday.

The drug targeted a common problem

About twenty percent of the global population have elevated lipoprotein(a) levels, roughly a billion people.Many of these patients keep cholesterol and blood pressure low, eat well, exercise regularly, yet still suffer heart attacks and strokes.

The drug worked on the target

Researchers gave eight thousand three hundred fifty adults with existing heart disease either a placebo or pelacarsen. The drug suppressed lipoprotein(a) levels by about seventy eight percent over five years.

But the benefit never came

Despite the seventy eight percent drop in lipoprotein(a), the reduction did not translate into saving people from suffering cardiovascular complications after five years.

“Very disappointing, terribly disappointing”

The lead researcher's shock

Steven Nissen, a cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic who led the study, said he was shocked.

“I was shocked. I had high hopes for success.”

Possible explanations for the failure

Experts suggest the drug may need longer treatment, earlier intervention before artery hardening advances, or may only help people with higher lipoprotein(a) levels.

Other drugs still in testing

Several other drugmakers, including Amgen and Eli Lilly, are testing other experimental lipoprotein(a)-lowering drugs. Results from those trials are expected to become available over the next few years.

“The take-home message is the story's not over. It's kind of just starting.”