scholarly journals Novel insights into the management of German patients with very high cardiovascular risk eligible for PCSK9 inhibitor treatment: baseline characteristics from the PERI-DYS study

2021 ◽  
Vol 42 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
U Laufs ◽  
A L Birkenfeld ◽  
U Fraass ◽  
B Hohenstein ◽  
C Siegert ◽  
...  

Abstract Background The reasons why patients are treated or not with PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) are incompletely understood. In Germany, access to PCSK9i is limited by local regulations and many high-risk cardiovascular patients do not receive these therapies. The PERI-DYS study aims to describe and compare two groups of dyslipidaemia patients at very high CV risk: those treated with PCSK9i compared with patients qualifying for but not treated with PCSK9i. Methods Observational study with up to 2000 consented patients, documented mainly by office-based cardiologists or physicians in lipid ambulances with data extracted from patient charts. Lipid lowering treatment (LLT) at enrolment includes ongoing PCSK9i use, newly initiated PCSK9i, statins, ezetimibe, and lipoprotein apheresis. Patients are followed for up to 3 years, with visits every 6±2 months to record LLT (drugs, dosing), other CV medications, lipid and glucose values, blood pressure, clinical events (major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events) and adverse drug reactions. Results As of 05 March 2021, 1488 patients have been enrolled across 70 sites. The majority of patients (91.5%) had heterozygous familial or non-familial hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidaemia. At enrolment, 49.4% of patients were receiving PCSK9i (35.4% ongoing and 14.0% newly treated). Among PCSK9i users, the majority were receiving evolocumab 140 mg (n=567, 38.1% of all enrolled patients). There were no major differences in demographics and non-lipid lowering medication, with the exception of more females in the PCSK9i group. The estimated untreated LDL-C based on “back-calculation” was higher in patients who were on ongoing PCSK9i therapy than in those not on PCSK9i or newly treated with PCSK9i (Table 1). Physician-reported statin intolerance was much more common in the two PCSK9i groups compared with the non-PCSK9i group (67% versus 14%). Patients in the PCSK9i groups received fewer concomitant statins. Mean on-treatment total cholesterol and LDL-C were considerably lower in patients who were on ongoing PCSK9i compared to non-PCSK9i. Overall, nicotinic acid, fibrates, cholestagel, and omega-3 fatty acids were rarely used (data not shown). Conclusions Patients treated with PCSK9i and those qualifying for but not treated with PCSK9i had similar baseline characteristics, but the former had higher estimated untreated LDL-C values and a higher rate of statin intolerance. Ongoing follow-up will determine the prognostic importance of these findings. FUNDunding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Amgen GmbH Germany

2021 ◽  
Vol 42 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
K K Ray ◽  
E Bruckert ◽  
P Filardi ◽  
C Ebenbichler ◽  
A Vogt ◽  
...  

Abstract Background 2019 ESC/EAS guidelines recommend a 50% lowering in untreated LDL-C and use of PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) for patients (pts) at very high cardiovascular (CV) risk when LDL-C goals of <1.4mmol/L are not met despite maximally tolerated statins and ezetimibe. However, the LDL-C threshold at which PCSK9i are reimbursed are higher than the goals recommended in clinical guidelines. Purpose This prospective observational cohort study describes clinical characteristics and LDL-C control among pts initiating evolocumab across 12 EU countries. Methods Pts are followed from evolocumab initiation (baseline). Demographic/clinical characteristics, lipid lowering therapy (LLT) and lipid values are being collected from medical records (6 months before evolocumab up to 30 months post initiation). We report interim data from pts initiating evolocumab from August 2015 followed-up until July 2020. Results Of the 1,952 pts in whom evolocumab was initiated as per local reimbursement criteria, most (1844 [94%]) had 12 months follow-up, 785 (40%) had 24 months follow-up; mean follow-up: 20 months. Mean (SD) age was 60 (10.8) years; 85% of pts had a history of CV disease, 45% had familial hypercholesterolemia, 19% had type 2 diabetes, 65% were hypertensive, 7% had chronic kidney disease and 51% were prior/current smokers. At evolocumab initiation, 60% reported statin intolerance and 41% were on no background LLT. Fewer than half (846 [43%]) were receiving a statin (± ezetimibe); of these, most received a high/moderate intensity (68%/22%), with 13% receiving statin monotherapy. Median (Q1, Q3) baseline LDL-C was 3.98 (3.17, 5.07) mmol/L. Within 3 months of initiation median LDL-C fell by 58% to 1.63mmol/L. This reduction was maintained over time (Figure 1). Overall, 58% of pts achieved at least one LDL-C <1.4mmol/L during follow-up. Among pts receiving background statins ± ezetimibe at evolocumab initiation, 67% (710/1053) achieved at least one LDL-C <1.4mmol/L, versus 44% (317/714) of pts not receiving background statins/ezetimibe. During follow-up background oral LLT did not materially change; 40–45% pts received no LLT, 41–44% received statin ± ezetimibe, 12–14% received statin monotherapy. Conclusion In Europe, pts initiated on evolocumab had baseline LDL-C levels almost 3x higher than the present threshold for PCSK9i use recommended in guidelines reflecting disparities between local reimbursement criteria and guidelines. Although evolocumab led to a >50% reduction in LDL-C, only ∼50% pts achieved an LDL-C <1.4mmol/L, as approximately 41% received only evolocumab as monotherapy. LDL-C goal attainment was however higher among pts receiving evolocumab with background LLT. Therefore, lowering the LDL-C threshold for PCSK9i reimbursement, would result in more patients receiving combination therapy with oral LLT plus PCSK9i, thus increasing the likelihood of more pts achieving very-high risk LDL-C goals. FUNDunding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Amgen Europe GmbH


2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
pp. 204209862095927
Author(s):  
Wei C. Yuet ◽  
Didi Ebert ◽  
Michael Jann

Neurocognitive adverse events have been observed with the widespread use of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors or “statins,” which reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and subsequently cardiovascular risk. The United States Food and Drug Association directed manufacturers of proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors to monitor for neurocognitive adverse events due to their potent effects on LDL-C reduction, which is a proposed mechanism for neuronal cell dysfunction. Other proposed mechanisms for PCSK9 inhibitor-associated neurocognitive adverse events include N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor modulation, dysregulation of lipid and glucose metabolism, and patient-specific risk factors for cognitive impairment. The purpose of this narrative review article is to describe the proposed mechanisms, incidence of neurocognitive adverse events from phase II and III trials for PCSK9 inhibitors, neurocognitive assessments utilized in clinical trials, and clinical implications. Given the increasing prevalence of PCSK9 inhibitor use and the neurocognitive adverse events observed with prior lipid-lowering therapies, clinicians should be aware of the risks associated with PCSK9 inhibitors, especially when therapy is indicated for patients at high risk for cardiovascular events. Overall, the incidence of PCSK9 inhibitor-associated neurocognitive appears to be uncommon. However, additional prospective studies evaluating cognitive impairment may be beneficial to determine the long-term safety of these agents.


2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (Supplement_2) ◽  
Author(s):  
K.K Ray ◽  
S Bray ◽  
A.L Catapano ◽  
N Poulter ◽  
G Villa

Abstract Background/Introduction For patients at very-high risk of cardiovascular (CV) events, the 2016 ESC/EAS dyslipidaemia guidelines recommended lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) to achieve an LDL-C level below 70 mg/dL. This was lowered to an LDL-C level below 55 mg/dL in the 2019 guidelines. Purpose To assess: 1) the risk profile of European patients with established atherosclerotic CV disease (ASCVD) receiving LLT; and 2) the treatment gap between the estimated risk and the population benefits if all patients were to achieve LDL-C levels of 70 mg/dL and 55 mg/dL. Methods We used data from Da Vinci, an observational cross-sectional study conducted across 18 European countries. Data were collected at a single visit between June 2017 and November 2018, for consented adults who had received any LLT in the prior 12 months and had an LDL-C measurement in the prior 14 months. LDL-C level was assessed at least 28 days after starting the most recent LLT (stabilised LLT). For each patient with established ASCVD receiving stabilised LLT, we: 1) calculated their absolute LDL-C reduction required to achieve LDL-C levels of 70 mg/dL and 55 mg/dL; 2) predicted their 10-year CV risk using the REACH score based on demographic and medical history; 3) simulated their relative risk reduction (RRR) by randomly sampling from the probability distribution of the rate ratio per 38.7 mg/dL (1 mmol/L) estimated by the Cholesterol Treatment Trialists Collaboration meta-analysis; and 4) calculated their absolute risk reduction (ARR) achieved by meeting LDL-C levels of 70 mg/dL and 55 mg/dL. Results A total of 2039 patients with established ASCVD were included in the analysis. Mean (SD) LDL-C was 83.1 (35.2) mg/dL. 40.4% and 19.3% of patients achieved LDL-C levels of 70 mg/dL and 55 mg/dL, respectively. Mean (SD) 10-year CV risk calculated using the REACH score was 36.3% (15.4%). Mean absolute LDL-C reductions of 19.6 mg/dL and 30.4 mg/dL were needed to reach LDL-C levels of 70 mg/dL and 55 mg/dL, respectively. When adjusted for the LDL-C reduction required to achieve an LDL-C level of 70 mg/dL, mean ARR was 3.0%, leaving a mean (SD) residual 10-year CV risk of 33.3% (15.5%). When adjusted for the LDL-C reduction required to achieve an LDL-C level of 55 mg/dL, mean ARR was 4.6%, leaving a mean (SD) residual 10-year CV risk of 31.7% (15.2%). Conclusion(s) In a contemporary European cohort with ASCVD receiving LLT, the 10-year risk of CV events is high and many patients do not achieve LDL-C levels of 55 mg/dL or even of 70 mg/dL. Moreover, even if all patients were to achieve recommended LDL-C levels, they would still remain at a high residual risk of CV events. These data suggest these patients require even more intensive LLT. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Amgen


2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Laurenz T. Fischer ◽  
Daniel A. Hochfellner ◽  
Lisa Knoll ◽  
Tina Pöttler ◽  
Julia K. Mader ◽  
...  

Abstract Background The lipid-lowering and positive cardiovascular effect of proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors was shown in several studies, hence, they are more widely used in the lipid-lowering management of individuals with high cardiovascular risk. As real-world data are still scarce, specifically in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), the aim of this retrospective analysis was to investigate the efficacy of PCSK9 inhibitors in lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in an outpatient clinic of a tertiary care center in routine care. Methods A retrospective analysis of data extracted from the electronic patient record was performed. Patients who were routinely prescribed with PCSK9 inhibitor therapy (alirocumab or evolocumab) during the years 2016 and 2019 were included in the analysis. Characteristics of the patient population, the effects on LDL-C and HbA1c levels as well as subsequent cardiovascular events were assessed over an observation period of 18 months. Results We identified 237 patients treated with PCSK9 inhibitors between January 2016 and September 2019. Almost all patients (97.5%) received PCSK9 inhibitors for secondary prevention. 26.2% of the population had a concomitant diabetes diagnosis. Intolerance to statins (83.1%), ezetimibe (44.7%) or both agents (42.6%) was reported frequently. Three months after initiation of PCSK9 inhibitor therapy, 61.2% of the patients achieved LDL-C levels < 70 mg/dl, and 44.1% LDL-C levels < 55 mg/dl. The median LDL-C was lowered from 141 mg/dl at baseline, to 60 mg/dl after 3 months and 66 mg/dl after 12 months indicating a reduction of LDL-C as follows: 57.5% after 3 months and 53.6% after 12 months. After 3 months of observation, target achievement of LDL-C was higher in patients with T2D compared to non-diabetes patients; < 55 mg/dl: 51% vs. 41.5%; < 70 mg/dl 69.4 vs. 58.5%. After 12 months even more pronounced target LDL achievement in T2D was demonstrated < 55 mg/dl: 58.8% vs. 30.1%; < 70 mg/dl 70.6 vs. 49.6%. Patients with insufficiently controlled T2D (HbA1c > 54 mmol/mol) had a higher reduction in LDL-C but still were more likely to subsequent cardiovascular events. Conclusions Significant reductions in LDL-C and a high percentage of patients achieving recommended treatment targets were observed. The percentage of patients with T2D meeting recommended LDL-C targets was higher than in those without T2D. Still some patients did not achieve LDL-C levels as recommended in current guidelines. Special attention to the characteristics of these patients is required in the future to enable achievement of treatment goals and avoid adverse cardiovascular outcomes.


2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (Supplement_2) ◽  
Author(s):  
R.S Wright ◽  
D Kallend ◽  
F.J Raal ◽  
R Stoekenbroek ◽  
W Koenig ◽  
...  

Abstract Introduction Statin-associated side effects prevent a substantial proportion of patients from being adequately treated with statin therapy and achieving adequate LDL-C reductions. Phase 3 trials showed that inclisiran, a new siRNA, durably lowers LDL-C by ≥50% on top of maximally tolerated statin therapy. Purpose To evaluate inclisiran's tolerability and LDL-C lowering effects among individuals who were not receiving statin therapy mainly because of statin intolerance. Methods The Phase 3 ORION-10 and ORION-11 trials randomized patients with established ASCVD (or risk-equivalents) with LDL-C &gt;70 mg/dl despite maximally tolerated statins to inclisiran or placebo (1:1). Inclisiran sodium 300 mg was administered s.c. at baseline, three months later, then every six months. The primary efficacy endpoints were % change in LDL-C from baseline to Day 510 and time adjusted % change in LDL-C from baseline after Day 90 and up to Day 540. Absolute LDL-C reductions were secondary endpoints. This analysis included individuals who were not on statin therapy at baseline. Results The trials included 252 (7.9% of the pooled trial populations; mean age 68; male 62%; lipid-lowering therapy 28%). AE rates and LDL-C reductions are shown in the Table. Overall, 12 (4.7%) patients had myalgia (4.8% in the inclisiran groups, 4.7% in the placebo groups). There were 8 discontinuations in the inclisiran groups (6.5%) and 3 in the placebo groups (2.3%). The placebo-adjusted mean reduction in LDL-C at Day 510 was 45.8%, an absolute reduction of 68.0 mg/dL (p&lt;0.0001). Conclusion Among statin intolerant individuals in ORION-10 and 11, inclisiran potently and durably lowered LDL-C with an adverse event profile comparable to placebo. Inclisiran may represent a new and potent therapeutic option for patients with elevated LDL-C unable to tolerate statins. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): The Medicines Company


2021 ◽  
Vol 42 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
A L Catapano ◽  
O Wiklund ◽  
D M Bushnell ◽  
M L Martin ◽  
E Sidelnikov ◽  
...  

Abstract Background and aims Statins are the standard of care for patients with dyslipidemia, but some patients develop intolerance to treatment. The experience of statin intolerant (SI) patients is poorly understood. The objective of this study was to identify key aspects of SI that may be associated with treatment discontinuation. Methods Using a previously created questionnaire, we conducted a pilot cross-sectional survey to identify items important for describing patient-centric aspects of SI. The study recruited adult (18+) patients with a history of statin-associated side effects from 9 clinics in 6 countries (France, Italy, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom), who had received statin treatment within the previous two years. Results We surveyed 104 patients (mean age 61.5 SD=11.2 years, 63.5% men, 50% currently on statins). Patients most frequently reported muscle-related symptoms: pain (90.9%), cramps (63.7%), and stiffness (58.2%). Using a 0–10 point scale, significant differences were found between those continuing versus discontinuing their statins for being bothered by side effects (7.5 vs 9.2, p=0.001), for an inability to tolerate side effects (6.7 vs 9.0, p&lt;0.001), and those having too much side effects interference with their daily life (5.7 vs 8.6, p&lt;0.001; see figure). For patients whose doctors worked on adjusting statin regimen, 67% stayed on treatment; for those whose doctors did not, only 10% continued treatment. Conclusions Results of this pilot survey suggest patients who experience greater side effects severity and interference with daily activity, along with lower efforts by clinicians to work with adjusting their statin regimen, are at greater risk for discontinuing treatment. A wider survey and larger study population is needed to confirm the results of this pilot study. FUNDunding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): This study was sponsored by Amgen Inc.


2019 ◽  
Vol 21 (11) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anne Sillars ◽  
Naveed Sattar

Abstract Purpose of Review To describe lipid abnormalities in diabetes, when they occur and the evidence base for lipid management with established and new drugs to prevent diabetes complications. We also discuss how to manage statin intolerance. Recent Findings Statins remain first-line therapy in patients with diabetes, though newer therapies to reduce LDL-C have emerged, including ezetimibe as an add-on therapy to statins, and injectable PCSK9 inhibitors, both of which are safe and effective in diabetes. Emerging evidence suggests a need to consider lipid-lowering therapies more often in younger patients with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Summary Statins remain the cornerstone of lipid management in diabetes but other options are increasing. There is also now evidence for better managing apparent statin intolerance. Notably, younger patients lose the most life years from their diabetes, an observation that future guidelines need to consider.


2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (Supplement_2) ◽  
Author(s):  
C Blaum ◽  
F.J Brunner ◽  
F Kroeger ◽  
J Braetz ◽  
B Bay ◽  
...  

Abstract Introduction The recently updated ESC guidelines on the management of dyslipidaemias recommend a more intense LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction. For patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) the LDL-C goal has been revised to ≤55 mg/dl with a concomitant class IA upgrade for cost intensive PCSK9 inhibitors. Purpose We aim to quantify the need for PCSK9 inhibitors to achieve the revised LDL-C target compared to former ESC recommendations in ASCVD patients Methods We included all patients with ASCVD (angiographically documented coronary artery disease, history of peripheral artery disease or stroke) from an observational cohort study ongoing since 2015. A simulation treatment algorithm adding sequentially a high intensity statin, ezetimibe and a PCSK9 inhibitor in case of a missed treatment target was applied with consideration of both partial and total statin intolerance. The need for PCSK9 inhibitors was calculated for 3 recommendations: 1. LDL-C treatment target ≤55 mg/dl (ESC 2019 Guidelines), 2. LDL-C treatment target ≤70 mg/dl (ESC 2016 Guidelines) and 3. risk-based use of PCSK9 inhibitors restricted to patients with a residual LDL-C &gt;140 mg/dl or &gt;100 mg/dl with clinical/angiographic risk factors (ESC consensus update 2017). Results We included 1936 patients (mean age 69 years, 74% male). Median LDL-C at inclusion was 86 mg/dl, with 60% of patients taking lipid lowering medication (55% statin only, 4% statin + ezetimibe, 1% ezetimibe only). Table 1 shows the distribution of medications required to meet recommendations 1–3. After simulated stepwise intensification of lipid lowering therapy 99% of patients achieved the revised LDL-C target of ≤55 mg/dl, with a need of 23.5% for a PCSK9 inhibitor. For the former LDL-C target of ≤70 mg/dl the need for PCSK9 inhibitors was 10.5%. Restricting the use of PCSK9 inhibitors to the highest risk patients according to the ESC 2017 consensus statement reduced the need for PCSK9 inhibition to only 1.4% with slightly fewer patients achieving their LDL-C target (78% for ≤55 mg/dl and 91% for ≤70 mg/dl respectively). Conclusion The revised LDL-C treatment goals substantially increase the projected need for PCSK9 inhibitors with an unclear health economic impact. Identification of ASCVD patients with a reasonable benefit/cost-ratio of PCSK9 inhibition remains to be investigated urgently. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None


2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (10) ◽  
pp. 55-60
Author(s):  
Ekaterina V. Kudina ◽  
◽  
Irina A. Samkova ◽  
Vera N. Larina ◽  
◽  
...  

Background. Hyperlipidemia is one of the most important risk factors for the onset and progression of cardiovascular diseases. Currently, several classes of drugs are used in lipid-lowering therapy, which have proven their effectiveness over the past decades. However, in a number of patients there is an intolerance to these drugs or it is not possible to achieve the target levels of the lipid spectrum against the background of the use of maximum doses and combination therapy. This dictates the need to create new lipid-lowering drugs. Aim. To present data on the proven efficacy of widely used drugs in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and the prospects for therapy of this pathology. Materials and methods. We analysed literature sources, included European and Russian guidelines in the last 10 years. Results. The article presents the results of multicenter international randomized clinical trials that studied the efficacy and safety of the main classes of lipid-lo-wering drugs, both in the form of mono- and combination therapy. The indications for the administration of fibrates, ezetimibe omega-3-fats and PCSK9 inhibitors, depending on clinical situations, are discussed. Information on the mechanisms of action of new lipid-lowering drugs – bempedoic acid and inclisiran is presented. The results of clinical trials studying the efficacy and safety of these drugs are presented. Conclusion. Achieving the target levels of lipid metabolism in patients with cardiovascular diseases is an important link in the program to reduce the risk of de-velopment and progression of cardiovascular diseases. At the moment, statins remain the main drugs for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. But in some patients, in order to achieve the goal, the appointment of a combination therapy is required, in which both the long-used fibrates, ezetimibe, omega-3-fats, and the most recent drugs: PCSK9 inhibitors, bempedoic acid and inclisiran can be used.


2021 ◽  
Vol 42 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
E Asilturk ◽  
M Tulmac ◽  
Ö Badak ◽  
T Onal ◽  
D Aras ◽  
...  

Abstract Background and aim Data on NOAC discontinuation patterns in Turkey are lacking. We conducted a subgroup analysis in ASPECT-NOAC study to determine anticoagulant discontinuation pattern in AF patients with recently initiated NOAC therapy. Methods ASPECT-NOAC was a national, multicenter, 12-month observational study conducted in 34 outpatient cardiology clinics of state, university, private, and research hospitals covering all geographic regions of Turkey. Adult AF patients who were under NOAC therapy for less than four months were enrolled. Patients who discontinued using their NOACs were recorded at the end of 12 months. A comparative analysis of patients with discontinuation of medication was conducted. Results This study included 991 non-valvular AF patients. NOAC continuation data were available for 854 patients. During study follow-up, 74 patients (8.7%) discontinued their NOAC medication. Mean age of these patients was 67.1±11.3 years old and 38 patients (51.4%) were female. Most commonly seen comorbidities were hypertension (66.2%) and coronary heart disease (39.2%). 29 patients (39.2%) had permanent (chronic) AF, followed by 26 patients (35.1%) with paroxysmal AF. Major reason for NOAC discontinuation was stated as physician request (n=46, 62%). Following reasons were patient request (n=17, 23%), other (n=9, 12%), and bleeding (n=2, 3%). Patients with NOAC discontinuation had a shorter duration of AF (21.7±41.7 vs 26.2±53.7 months, p=0.017). There was no significant difference of educational levels between medication discontinuation subgroups (p=0.637). Other baseline characteristics and patient disease and treatment awareness levels were similar with the patients who continued their medication. Of 74 patients, two patients died during the study because of cardiac failure. Conclusion NOAC continuity rate over 12 months was found to be high. NOAC discontinuation rate were higher in the patients with shorter duration of AF. Further studies with long-term follow-up detailing discontinuation reasons are warranted. FUNDunding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): This study was funded by Pfizer.


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