One drug shows promise in cardiovascular research, UVA Health expert says

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) - A UVA expert is exploring a drug that could potentially lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The focus is on a drug called Lepodisiran, that could target certain factors that increase this risk.

He says it’s showing good signs, but it’s still too early to call.

“I would say they’re very promising, but you know, the proof is always in the pudding,” said Doctor Christopher Kramer, Chief of Cardiovascular Medicine at UVA Health .

Lipoprotein(a) is a protein that carries cholesterol in the blood. High levels can increase risk heart attacks and strokes, even if regular cholesterol looks normal.

“These new classes of drugs dramatically reduce lipoprotein(a) levels,” Dr. Kramer said.

According to Dr. Kramer, about 20 to 30% of Americans have elevated levels of lipoprotein(a). While current medications lower cholesterol, they don’t target this protein.

Lepodisiran is part of a new class of drugs aimed at fixing that issue.

“There are three ongoing studies, one using this drug, and two using drugs very much like it,” Dr. Kramer said. “We’re looking to see if they not only lower lipoprotein(a), but reduce heart attack and stroke risk.”

While results are looking up, Dr. Kramer says more clinical data is needed before experts can officially rely on the drug to prevent heart attacks and strokes.

“We really need to wait for the definitive clinical trials that show whether or not these drugs reduce cardiovascular events,” Dr. Kramer said.

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