How does Nexlizet compare to statins and other alternatives for treating high cholesterol?

Nexlizet may help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol in adults when statins alone are not enough, combining two non-statin agents for added effect.

Overview

Some people with high cholesterol don’t get enough benefit from statins alone or can’t tolerate their side effects. Nexlizet is an option combining non-statin medications to support cholesterol reduction.

• Includes bempedoic acid and ezetimibe, working differently from statins
• Often used as an add-on to diet or statin therapy
• May be useful for statin-intolerant individuals under medical guidance

This helps explain why alternatives like Nexlizet have become part of the treatment landscape for high cholesterol.

Detailed Information

How it works

Nexlizet combines two agents: bempedoic acid, which may block cholesterol production in the liver, and ezetimibe, which may limit absorption of cholesterol in the intestine. This two-pronged approach may help lower LDL cholesterol more effectively for certain individuals.

Clinical applications

According to the product labeling on Drugs.com, Nexlizet is approved for adults with primary hyperlipidemia. It’s typically used when statins are not enough, or in cases where statins are not tolerated. It’s not intended as a replacement for statins in all cases, but rather as an additional or alternative pathway in cholesterol management.

Safety and Effectiveness

Safety profile

As noted by the UK Summary of Product Characteristics, potential side effects of the ingredients in Nexlizet may include elevated uric acid levels, muscle pain, or liver enzyme changes. People with a history of gout or liver issues should consult their provider prior to starting therapy.

FDA approval and indications

Nexlizet is FDA-approved for use in adults with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia or established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease who require additional LDL-C lowering. This approval supports its use in combination with diet and other lipid-lowering treatments.

Access and Availability

How to obtain safely

A licensed pharmacy like IsraelPharm provides access to Nexlizet under its international brand name Nustendi. It’s vital to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendation before starting this or any cholesterol-lowering medication.

Key Takeaways

• Nexlizet combines bempedoic acid and ezetimibe to target cholesterol in two ways.
• It may be considered when statins aren’t enough or tolerated.
• Common side effects include muscle pain and elevated uric acid levels.
• It is FDA-approved and should be used under medical supervision.
• It’s available internationally through licensed pharmacies like IsraelPharm.

FAQ

Is Nexlizet a statin?

No, Nexlizet is not a statin. It contains bempedoic acid and ezetimibe, both of which work through non-statin mechanisms to lower cholesterol levels.

Can Nexlizet be used if I can’t tolerate statins?

Yes, according to the Drugs.com label, Nexlizet may be prescribed when statins are not tolerated or don’t lower cholesterol enough. Always consult your provider to determine the most appropriate therapy.

What are common side effects of Nexlizet?

Per the UK SPC, potential side effects include increased uric acid levels, upper respiratory tract infection, and muscle spasm. Monitoring may be necessary during use.

How is Nexlizet different from ezetimibe alone?

Nexlizet adds bempedoic acid to ezetimibe, creating a dual mechanism to lower LDL cholesterol more than ezetimibe alone, especially when used with a statin.

Where can I buy Nexlizet if it’s not available locally?

IsraelPharm offers Nexlizet under the brand name Nustendi. You can contact their team for availability and pricing details.