Dyslipidaemias and cardiovascular disease: Focus on the role of PCSK9 inhibitors

Genetic, experimental and clinical studies have consistently confirmed that inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) can result in significant LDL-C lowering and two fully human PCSK9 mononclonal antibodies have received regulatory approval for use in high-risk patients. Co- administration of PCSK9 with statins has resulted in extremely low LDL-C levels with excellent short-term safety profiles. While results from Phase III clinical trials provided exciting evidence about the role of PCSK9 inhibitors in reducing cardiovascular event rates, their impact on mortality remains less clear. PCSK9 inhibitor therapy can be considered for high risk patients who are likely to experience the largest cardiovascular risk reduction benefit