Inclisiran

Inclisiran is a prescription medication used to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. It belongs to a class of drugs called small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapies. Inclisiran works by targeting PCSK9, a protein that reduces the liver's ability to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood. It is primarily prescribed to patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or those at high risk who are unable to control cholesterol levels through statins alone.

Uses of Inclisiran

• Lowering elevated LDL cholesterol levels
• Used in patients with established cardiovascular disease
• Adjunct to diet and statin therapy
• For patients with familial hypercholesterolemia

How Inclisiran works

Inclisiran works by inhibiting the synthesis of PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9), a protein that reduces the number of LDL receptors on liver cells. By silencing the gene responsible for PCSK9 production, Inclisiran enhances the liver’s ability to clear LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, leading to significantly lower cholesterol levels.

Benefits of Inclisiran

• Significant and sustained reduction in LDL cholesterol levels
• Convenient dosing with just two doses per year after the initial dose
• Helps manage cholesterol in high-risk cardiovascular patients
• Effective even in patients with statin intolerance

How to take Inclisiran

Inclisiran is administered as a subcutaneous injection by a healthcare professional. The recommended dosing schedule is one initial dose, followed by a second dose at 3 months, and then every 6 months thereafter. It should be used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications and statin therapy when appropriate.

Type of Dosage Available

• Injection (Subcutaneous)

Side effects of Inclisiran

• Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)
• Back pain
• Arthralgia (joint pain)
• Fatigue
• Elevated liver enzymes (rare)
• Allergic reactions (rare)

Safety advice

• Inform your doctor about any liver conditions or other medical history
• Safe to use with statins or ezetimibe under supervision
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless necessary
• Report any persistent injection site reactions or unusual symptoms
• Keep follow-up appointments for lipid monitoring

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What is Inclisiran used for?
A. Inclisiran is used to lower LDL cholesterol in patients at risk for cardiovascular disease who require additional cholesterol reduction beyond statins.

Q. How often is Inclisiran given?
A. It is given as a subcutaneous injection initially, again at 3 months, and then once every 6 months.

Q. Can Inclisiran be used alone?
A. It is usually used in addition to statins and lifestyle changes, but may be considered alone in statin-intolerant patients.

Q. Is Inclisiran safe during pregnancy?
A. Inclisiran is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary; consult your doctor before use.

Q. What should I do if I miss a dose?
A. Contact your healthcare provider to reschedule the missed injection as soon as possible.