What is the mechanism of action for Leqvio (inclisiran)?
On the surface of liver cells are receptors for LDL cholesterol that play a critical role in regulating blood cholesterol levels. The more receptors that are present, the quicker cholesterol can be removed from the bloodstream. Receptor numbers are under the control of a protein, called PCSK9 which breaks down LDL receptors, meaning more cholesterol is left in the blood. Leqvio works by blocking this PCSK9 protein which means more LDL receptors are present on liver cells which increases the uptake of LDL cholesterol and lowers LDL cholesterol in the blood, reducing cholesterol levels.
Leqvio blocks the PCSK9 protein by interfering with the translation of PCSK9 messenger RNA (mRNA) which limits the production of PCSK9. It is a double-stranded small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA), which is conjugated with triantennary N-Acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) to allow better uptake by liver cells.
Leqvio is administered by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection every 6 months and is used in combination with a daily oral statin (such as atorvastatin or rosuvastatin) together with a healthy diet. It belongs to the class of medicines known as small interfering ribonucleic acids (siRNAs).
References
- Leqvio (inclisiran) Prescribing Information. FDA Access Data. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/214012lbl.pdf
- Leqvio (inclisiran) [Package Insert] Updated April 1, 2022. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation https://www.drugs.com/pro/leqvio.html
- What is Leqvio. Leqvio.com. https://www.leqvio.com/what-is-leqvio
Read next
Related medical questions
- Does Leqvio cause weight gain?
- How is Leqvio injection administered?
- Is Leqvio FDA approved as a high cholesterol treatment?
- Who is the actor in the Leqvio commercial?
- Where can I find the Leqvio FDA package insert?
- How does Leqvio work in treating high cholesterol?
- What are the 10 most effective ways to lower cholesterol?
- Praluent vs Repatha: What's the difference?
- Can Zetia (ezetimibe) cause liver damage?
- When should you take ezetimibe?
- When is the best time to take simvastatin?
- How do you inject Repatha?
- How do you manage muscle pain with cholesterol drugs?
- When is the best time to take Zetia?
- Does Garlic interact with any drugs?
- Can you drink alcohol and take Repatha?
- Can I drink grapefruit juice with simvastatin?
- What should you know about "Statin" Medications?
- Does Praluent (alirocumab) lower triglycerides?
- What is the mechanism of action for Juxtapid (lomitapide)?
- Is Juxtapid FDA-approved as a high cholesterol treatment?
- Is Evkeeza FDA approved as a high cholesterol treatment?
- Which blood lipids are linked to heart disease?
- What's the buzz on Ozempic and Wegovy?
- How does Praluent work?
- Are you at Risk for Metabolic Syndrome?
- How to Improve your Medication Adherence?
Drug information
Related support groups
- Leqvio (10 questions, 9 members)
- Inclisiran (9 questions, 5 members)
- High Cholesterol (98 questions, 267 members)
- High Cholesterol - Familial Heterozygous (25 questions, 45 members)