Merck wins FDA approval for first oral cholesterol pill

Merck has received FDA approval for Lipfendra, the first once-daily oral PCSK9 inhibitor. This medication provides adults with high LDL cholesterol an alternative to injectable therapies for reducing cardiovascular risk. When combined with statins, Lipfendra demonstrated the ability to reduce LDL cholesterol by approximately 56% to 60%. This approval marks a significant development in cholesterol management, offering a potent oral option that can lower cholesterol levels more effectively than using statins alone.