Results of a recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicineshowed that patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who were treated with PCSK9 inhibitors benefited not only from LDL-cholesterol reduction but plaque stabilization as well. Currently, the PCSK9 inhibitors evolocumab and alirocumab are approved for lowering of LDL in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia or clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease who are not at goal despite maximally tolerated statin therapy.
According to the study authors, acute coronary events result in a dynamic increase of PCSK9 levels that may have an effect on plaque vulnerability of both culprit and nonculprit coronary vessels, thus leading to a potential role for PCSK9 inhibitors in managing ACS. Further, formal study on the timing of PCSK9 inhibitor administration to patients with ACS and their effects on inflammatory and thrombosis pathways will be necessary. For more perspective on the study, read here.
To learn more on managing high-risk patients in the PCSK9 era, don’t miss the Best of the CMHC Regional Conference Series taking place in Atlanta, GA on May 7 and in Chicago, IL on June 18, as well as the 11th Annual CMHC in Boston, MA October 5- 8, 2016.
Healio. PCSK9 inhibitors may be appropriate for use in patients with ACS.
