Please note this project has now completed. The information on this page was accurate on closure of the project but will not be updated further. If you have any questions please contact opportunities@healthinnovationwm.org

This project completed in January 2022

What is PCSK9i?

PCSK9 is a protein made in the liver. Research has shown that people with high levels of PCSK9 tend to have high cholesterol and a higher risk of developing early heart disease. Conversely, those with low levels of PCSK9 tend to have low cholesterol and hence a lower risk of heart disease. A PCSK9 inhibitor (PCSK9i) is a medicine used to treat patients with high cholesterol and reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.

Why is PCSK9i required?

PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) are used for treatment of very high cholesterol and are used together with a statin-type cholesterol lowering medicine, or in those who are unable to take or tolerate statins.

What solution does PCSK9i provide?

Provide an additional treatment option in high-risk patients who previously remained at risk despite maximum tolerated statin therapy.

What impact does PCSK9i have?

Some clinical trials have shown PCSK9 inhibitors have lowered low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels by more than half in comparison to a placebo.

Larger scale trials have also shown that taking PCSK9i in addition to maximum tolerated statin therapy can lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, as well as reduced risk of admissions and re-admissions associated with cardiovascular disease.

PCSK9i is one of four pathways and innovations being supported through the 2020-2022 RUP Programme.

How do you find out more?

Please get in touch with a member of the project team below.

• Emma Suggett, Associate Director Innovation Development: emma.suggett@healthinnovationwm.org