Praluent

Definition

Praluent (alirocumab) is a monoclonal antibody used to lower LDL cholesterol levels. It belongs to the class of drugs known as PCSK9 inhibitors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Praluent works by inhibiting the protein PCSK9, which increases the liver's ability to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood.
2. It is administered via subcutaneous injection, typically every two weeks or monthly.
3. Common side effects of Praluent include injection site reactions, flu-like symptoms, and nasopharyngitis.
4. Praluent is often prescribed for patients who have heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia or clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and require additional lowering of LDL cholesterol.
5. Clinical trials have shown that Praluent can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 60% when combined with statin therapy.

Review Questions

• What class of drugs does Praluent belong to?
• How does Praluent work to lower LDL cholesterol levels?
• What are some common side effects associated with Praluent?

Related terms

Statins:

Drugs that inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis.

PCSK9 Inhibitors:

A class of drugs that lower LDL cholesterol by inhibiting the protein PCSK9.

LDL Cholesterol:

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, often referred to as 'bad' cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries.