Dear Patients, As a healthcare professional, I am constantly seeking new and effective treatments to help you manage your health conditions. I am excited to share with you information about a new medication called Leqvio, which has been shown to be effective in reducing cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is a type of fat that is found in our blood and is essential for the normal functioning of our body. However, high levels of cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. There are several lifestyle changes that can help to reduce cholesterol levels, such as a healthy diet, exercise, and quitting smoking. However, in some cases, medication may be necessary to help manage cholesterol levels. Leqvio is a new type of medication called a small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy. It works by targeting a specific protein in the liver called PCSK9, which is responsible for removing LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol from the blood. By blocking the action of PCSK9, Leqvio can help to lower LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. One of the key benefits of Leqvio is that it can be taken in a single dose every six months, as opposed to other cholesterol-lowering medications that require daily dosing. This can make it more convenient for patients who have difficulty remembering to take their medication every day. Leqvio can also be used for patients who cannot tolerate Statin drugs because of their side effects, or those who despite use of Statins require additional reduction of LDL cholesterol to get to the desired goal. Clinical trials have shown that Leqvio can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia, a condition characterized by high levels of cholesterol in the blood. In a study of over 500 patients with hypercholesterolemia, those who received Leqvio had an average reduction in LDL cholesterol of 50% compared to those who received a placebo. Another benefit of Leqvio is that it is well-tolerated by patients. The most common side effect reported in clinical trials was injection site reactions, such as redness or swelling. These reactions were generally mild and resolved on their own within a few days. It is important to note that Leqvio is not suitable for everyone. It is recommended for patients with high cholesterol who have not achieved their target LDL cholesterol levels despite lifestyle changes and other cholesterol-lowering medications. It is also not recommended for patients with certain liver or kidney conditions. As with any medication, there may be potential risks and side effects associated with Leqvio. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your healthcare provider before starting this medication. In addition to taking Leqvio, it is important to continue with a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a healthy diet, to manage cholesterol levels. Leqvio is not a substitute for these lifestyle changes, but rather an additional tool to help manage high cholesterol levels. In conclusion, Leqvio is a promising new medication that can help to significantly reduce LDL cholesterol levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia. Its convenient dosing schedule and well-tolerated side effect profile make it a valuable addition to the treatment options available for high cholesterol. If you have questions about whether Leqvio may be right for you, please do not hesitate to discuss this with your healthcare provider. Leqvio is administered easily in my office as a simple shot, much like you would give a vitamin B Injection. Leqvio is covered by many insurances including Medicare where appropriate. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions via my email doctoremrani@gmail.com. Thank you for entrusting me with your care. Best Regards, Afshine Ash Emrani, M.D., F.A.C.C.
