Researchers Find New Drug Could Be A Game Changer For Those With High Cholesterol

Many people with high cholesterol use daily medications to decrease their cholesterol levels and avoid heart attacks. There hasn't historically been a prescription that specifically targets lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), a harmful kind of cholesterol in the blood, but a new study may be changing that (via US News). The study, which was published in the New England Journal of Medicine and involves an experimental drug called olpasiran, is causing many scientists to be cautiously optimistic about how it could help people manage their cholesterol levels.

During the study, which involved a sample size of about 230 people, those who were given the highest doses of olpasiran reduced their Lp(a) concentration by more than 95% compared to those given a placebo. Olpasiran is given through an injection every 12 weeks. The study also did not find significant side effects associated with olpasiran, and those who experienced mild injection site reactions saw them resolve on their own. A phase 3 trial of the drug will launch in December.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is found in the fats (lipids) in your blood. Your body needs some cholesterol to function properly, but too much cholesterol can be harmful (via The American Heart Association). High cholesterol levels can build up on the walls of your arteries and form plaque. This plaque can narrow or block your arteries, which can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. There are two main types of cholesterol: LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is often called "bad" cholesterol because it can build up on the walls of your arteries and form plaque. HDL cholesterol is often called "good" cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries.

You can have your cholesterol checked with a simple blood test, according to Mayo Clinic. Your doctor will use your cholesterol results, along with other factors, to determine your risk for heart disease and other health problems. If you have high cholesterol, there are things you can do to lower your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk for heart disease and other health problems. Some lifestyle changes that can help reduce your cholesterol include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. You may also need to take medication to lower your cholesterol levels.