JapanThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new cholesterol-lowering pill developed by Merck, called Lipfendra. This is the first non-injectable medication that targets the PCSK9 protein, which limits the body's ability to remove cholesterol from the bloodstream. Previously, treatments targeting PCSK9 required costly injections from companies like Amgen. Merck's drug was tested in two trials involving high-risk patients already on statin therapy, showing significant reductions in LDL cholesterol—over 55% in one trial and 59% in another. Side effects were reported but were comparable to a placebo. The FDA expedited the review process, though the former FDA head who initiated this pathway recently resigned amid external pressures. High LDL cholesterol remains a major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about a pharmaceutical development without overtly favoring any political ideology. It discusses the medical implications, regulatory process, and economic factors surrounding the drug's approval, maintaining a balanced tone. There is no evident ideological倾向
