-
DE
Alirocumab – PCSK9 Inhibitor for Cholesterol Reduction
Alirocumab is a cholesterol-lowering medication belonging to the PCSK9 inhibitor class. It is used when conventional therapies are insufficient to control LDL levels.
Add as Preferred SourceThings worth knowing about "Alirocumab"
Alirocumab is a cholesterol-lowering medication belonging to the PCSK9 inhibitor class. It is used when conventional therapies are insufficient to control LDL levels.
What is Alirocumab?
Alirocumab is a biotechnology-derived monoclonal antibody belonging to the class of PCSK9 inhibitors. It is marketed under the brand name Praluent and is indicated for lowering elevated LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. The medication is administered by subcutaneous injection and is approved for use in adults with specific lipid disorders.
Indications
Alirocumab is indicated for:
- Primary hypercholesterolaemia (including familial and non-familial forms)
- Mixed dyslipidaemia
- Patients at high cardiovascular risk in whom statins are insufficient or not tolerated
- Reduction of cardiovascular risk following acute coronary syndrome
Mechanism of Action
Alirocumab inhibits the enzyme PCSK9 (Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9). Under normal conditions, PCSK9 binds to LDL receptors on the surface of liver cells and promotes their degradation. By blocking PCSK9, more LDL receptors remain available to remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. This leads to a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol levels – by up to 60% compared to placebo in clinical trials.
Dosage and Administration
Alirocumab is administered as a subcutaneous injection, typically every two weeks. It is available as a prefilled pen or prefilled syringe. The standard dose is 75 mg every two weeks, which may be increased to 150 mg if the response is insufficient. A 300 mg dose for monthly administration is also approved. Patients can self-administer the injection after appropriate training.
Side Effects
Alirocumab is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects include:
- Injection site reactions (redness, pain, swelling)
- Nasopharyngitis (cold-like symptoms)
- Influenza-like illness
- Back pain
Rarer but potentially more serious side effects include allergic reactions and possible neurocognitive effects that were observed in some studies, the clinical significance of which is still being investigated.
Treatment Context
Alirocumab is frequently used as an add-on to statin therapy or as an alternative in cases of statin intolerance. The landmark ODYSSEY OUTCOMES trial demonstrated that alirocumab significantly reduces the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death in patients following acute coronary syndrome. It therefore represents an important component of modern lipid-lowering therapy in high-risk patients.
References
- Schwartz GG et al. – ODYSSEY OUTCOMES Investigators: Alirocumab and Cardiovascular Outcomes after Acute Coronary Syndrome. New England Journal of Medicine, 2018; 379:2097-2107.
- European Medicines Agency (EMA): Praluent (Alirocumab) – Summary of Product Characteristics. EMA, 2015 (updated 2023). Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu
- Catapano AL et al. – 2016 ESC/EAS Guidelines for the Management of Dyslipidaemias. European Heart Journal, 2016; 37(39):2999-3058.
Building Blocks for a Healthy Life
As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.
Skip product gallery
Subscription available
Floral
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®30 lozenges
Regular price:
€22.90
Discount
Subscription available
Lactoferrin 60 Capsules
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
60 Capsules
Sale price:
€50.00
Regular price:
€59.90
Discount
Subscription available
Multivitamin Mineral Complex
Daily basic supply: the complete spectrum of micronutrients
Natural multivitamin complex for the immune system, energy, and central body functions
30 Capsules
Sale price:
€27.90
Regular price:
€29.90
Subscription available
Natural Iron
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
30 Capsules
Regular price:
€35.90
Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Magnesiumcarbonat ist eine anorganische Magnesiumverbindung mit säure-neutralisierender (antazidischer) Wirkung. Erfahre mehr über Vorteile, Einsatzgebiete und Unterschiede zu besser resorbierbaren Magnesiumformen.
Calorie content
The choice of food influences our energy intake. The calorie content varies greatly - some provide little energy, others a lot.
Cologne list
The Cologne List ® is an important initiative in competitive sports that offers athletes guidance in the selection of nutritional supplements.