Products
Alirocumab was approved in the United States and EU in 2015 and in many countries in 2016 as the first agent in the group of PCSK9 inhibitors in the form of a solution for injection (Praluent).
Structure and properties
Alirocumab is an IgG1 monoclonal antibody with a molecular mass of 146 kDa.
Effects
Alirocumab (ATC C10AX14) has lipid-lowering properties. It selectively binds to PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9). This serine protease binds to LDL-C receptors on the surface of liver cells and directs them to degradation in hepatocyte lysosomes. By inhibiting the function of PCSK9, the concentration of LDL receptors is increased, resulting in a reduction of LDL-C in the blood. The half-life ranges from 17 to 20 days.
Indications
- Dyslipidemia: Primary hypercholesterolemia, mixed dyslipidemia.
- Heart disease due to atherosclerosis.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The injection solution is injected subcutaneously every two weeks.
Contraindications
Alirocumab is contraindicated in the presence of hypersensitivity. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse Effects
The most common potential adverse effects include upper respiratory tract infection and local injection site reactions.
