A twice-yearly jab which replaces daily statins could be a “game changer” for millions of people with high cholesterol, scientists say.
A landmark study of 1,600 people over 18 months found that the injection halved the levels of “bad” cholesterol in the blood without any apparent side effects.
Doctors say the drug, called Inclisiran, showed “phenomenal” results and could transform the lives of millions of people who have to take statin tablets every day.
It could also help lower the risk of a heart attack or stroke, they say.
Kausik Ray, professor of public health and consultant cardiologist at Imperial College London, led the study for the Medicines Company, which is developing the drug.
Presenting the findings to leading cardiologists at the European Society of Cardiology Congress in Paris, he said: “It’s a game changer to manage cholesterol. The convenience is key.”
It is hoped the jab could be on the market within about two years.
Researchers hope it will improve the lives of people living with high cholesterol who forget to take their statins or suffer side effects from the pills.
Prof Ray said it would initially be taken alongside daily statin tablets and could help up to about 700,000 people in the UK.
Mark Timney, chief executive of The Medicines Company, said: “We are excited at the prospect of bringing forward a remarkable, transformative advance in the treatment of cardiovascular disease.”
