Current Affairs - Science - Discussion

Lipfendra (enlicitide) became the world's first once-daily oral PCSK9 inhibitor after receiving approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on July 16, 2026. Developed by Merck, the medicine works by blocking the PCSK9 protein, allowing more LDL receptors in the liver to remove bad cholesterol from the bloodstream. Clinical trials showed that it reduced LDL cholesterol levels by 56% to 60%. It is intended for adults with hypercholesterolemia, including familial hypercholesterolemia, and is used alongside statins and a healthy diet to achieve better cholesterol control.