Bempedoic acid is a promising new drug that has shown great potential in the management of high cholesterol levels. As a medical professional, I am excited about the possibilities that this medication offers for patients who struggle with elevated cholesterol levels despite lifestyle modifications.

Bempedoic acid works by inhibiting an enzyme called ATP citrate lyase, which plays a key role in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, bempedoic acid helps to lower LDL cholesterol levels, also known as “bad” cholesterol, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

One of the advantages of bempedoic acid is that it can be used in combination with other cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins, to achieve even greater reductions in LDL cholesterol levels. This makes it a valuable option for patients who are unable to tolerate high doses of statins or who do not achieve their target cholesterol levels with statin therapy alone.

Like any medication, bempedoic acid may have side effects, including muscle pain and weakness, which can be similar to those experienced with statins. However, these side effects are generally mild and can be managed with close monitoring by a healthcare provider.

Overall, bempedoic acid represents a promising addition to the armamentarium of medications available for the management of high cholesterol levels. As a medical professional, I am optimistic about the potential benefits that this drug can offer to patients in reducing their cardiovascular risk and improving their overall health.