inclisiran

Inclisiran is a long-acting small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutic used to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in adults with primary hyperlipidemia, including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. It works by specifically targeting the mRNA of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), leading to its degradation via the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). This results in decreased hepatic production of PCSK9 protein, increased recycling and expression of LDL receptors on hepatocytes, and enhanced clearance of circulating LDL-C. Inclisiran is administered as a subcutaneous injection every six months and is typically used alongside statins or other lipid-lowering therapies when additional LDL-C reduction is needed. The drug was developed as part of efforts to provide durable cholesterol lowering through gene silencing mechanisms[2][3][4][5][6][7].

Brand names

Leqvio

Other names

inclisiran sodium