The price of Leqvio (inclisiran) varies by location and insurance coverage. In the United States, a 284 mg/1.5 mL subcutaneous injection solution is often listed at around $3,500 to $3,700 per dose [1].
How often do patients take Leqvio?
Leqvio is administered in a specific dosing regimen. Following the initial dose, a second dose is given three months later. After that, Leqvio is typically taken every six months [2].
What is Leqvio used for?
Leqvio is a prescription medicine used to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. It is prescribed for adults with high cholesterol who have a history of cardiovascular disease or familial hypercholesterolemia, and who are not able to reach their LDL-C goals with statins [3].
How does Leqvio work?
Leqvio is an RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutic. It works by reducing the production of PCSK9 protein in the liver. PCSK9 normally promotes the breakdown of LDL receptors on the liver surface. By lowering PCSK9, Leqvio increases the number of LDL receptors available to remove LDL-C from the blood [4].
When does Leqvio's patent expire?
Patent information for Leqvio is complex, with multiple patents covering different aspects of the drug. Generally, key patents for branded drugs can expire in the mid-2030s or later, which could open the door for generic competition. For specific patent expiration dates and potential challenges, resources like DrugPatentWatch.com can provide detailed information [5].
Who makes Leqvio?
Leqvio is manufactured by Novartis [6].
How does Leqvio compare to other cholesterol medications?
Unlike statins, which are taken daily, Leqvio is administered twice in the first three months and then every six months, offering a less frequent dosing schedule [2]. Other cholesterol-lowering medications include statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors like alirocumab (Praluent) and evolocumab (Repatha), and bempedoic acid. Leqvio offers a different mechanism of action and dosing frequency compared to many of these [4].
What are the potential side effects of Leqvio?
Common side effects of Leqvio include injection site reactions, such as pain, bruising, redness, or itching. Other reported side effects can include flu-like symptoms, and pain in the arms or legs [3].
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Sources:
[1] GoodRx. (n.d.). Inclisiran Prices, Coupons & Savings. Retrieved from [https://www.goodrx.com/inclisiran](https://www.goodrx.com/inclisiran)<br />
[2] Leqvio. (n.d.). *How to Take Leqvio. Retrieved from https://www.leqvio.com/how-to-take-leqvio/
[3] Leqvio. (n.d.). *Leqvio for High Cholesterol`. Retrieved from https://www.leqvio.com/
[4] Ray, K. K., et al. (2020). Inclisiran versus placebo in patients at high cardiovascular risk. *New England Journal of Medicine, 382(16), 1507-1517.
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Inclisiran Patents.
[6] Novartis. (n.d.). Our Medicines. Retrieved from https://www.novartis.com/our-medicines