Bempedoic Acid
About Bempedoic Acid
Bempedoic Acid belongs to a group of medicines called adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase (ACL) inhibitors used together with lifestyle changes and certain cholesterol-lowering medicines to decrease bad cholesterol in patients with heart disease or familial heterozygous hypercholesterolemia (an inherited condition in which cholesterol cannot be removed from the body normally).
Bempedoic Acid contains Bempedoic acid, which works by blocking an enzyme (ATP citrate lyase) needed for the production of cholesterol. This helps block the production of cholesterol in the liver and increases the removal of LDL cholesterol. Thereby, it helps decrease bad cholesterol in the body.
In some cases, Bempedoic Acid may cause side effects such as anaemia, gout, and pain in the shoulders, arms or legs. Most of these side effects may not require medical attention and resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if the side effects persist or worsen.
Do not take Bempedoic Acid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Bempedoic Acid is not recommended for children below 18 years as the safety and effectiveness have not been established. Inform the doctor regarding your health condition and medicines you are taking to rule out any possible side effects/interactions.
Uses of Bempedoic Acid
Medicinal Benefits
Bempedoic Acid belongs to a group of medicines called adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase (ACL) inhibitors used in addition to the cholesterol-lowering diet in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolaemia (high cholesterol) or mixed dyslipidaemia (imbalance of lipids), which are conditions that cause a high cholesterol level in the blood. Bempedoic Acid contains Bempedoic acid, which works by blocking an enzyme (ATP citrate lyase) needed for the production of cholesterol. This helps block the production of cholesterol in the liver and increases the removal of LDL cholesterol. Thereby, it helps decrease bad cholesterol in the body.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Bempedoic Acid
- Anaemia (low red blood cells)
- Gout (increased levels of uric acid)
- Pain in arms, legs, or shoulders
- Muscle spasms
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
High cholesterol: High cholesterol levels in the blood might build up on the walls of the arteries, leading to blockage of blood flow to the heart and other body parts, which could cause heart disease, heart attack or stroke. Cholesterol is mainly of two types, namely, 'bad cholesterol' and 'good cholesterol'. Bad cholesterol comprises low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglycerides (TG), which deposit fat in the arteries, leading to their blockage. Good cholesterol consists of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which prevents the deposition of fats. Risk factors of high cholesterol are high-fat diet, obesity, lack of physical exercise, and smoking.
FAQs
Bempedoic Acid works by blocking the production of cholesterol in the liver. Thereby, it helps treat high cholesterol.
Do not discontinue Bempedoic Acid without consulting your doctor, as it could lead to a rise in cholesterol. To get effective results, continue taking Bempedoic Acid for as long as prescribed. Do not hesitate to speak with your doctor if you experience any difficulty while taking Bempedoic Acid.
Tendon problems may happen in people taking Bempedoic Acid. Consult the doctor if you experience pain, swelling, inflammation and tears of tendons, including Achilles (back of ankle), arm and shoulder. The risk of tendon problems may be increased if you are above 60 years of age, have renal problems, have had tendon problems or are taking antibiotics or corticosteroids.
