Leqvio vs. Repatha for High Cholesterol: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Leqvio

(inclisiran)

Repatha

(evolocumab)

Summary for Leqvio

Prescription only

Leqvio (inclisiran) is an injectable medication used to treat high cholesterol in adults. It's used together with a statin and with a heart-healthy diet. Leqvio (inclisiran) works as a small interfering RNA (siRNA) to help lower cholesterol. It's given as an injection under your skin and it must be given by a healthcare professional. After the first two starter doses, the injection is given twice a year. Side effects aren't common. But they can include joint pain and reactions at the injection site like pain and redness.

Indications for Leqvio

High cholesterol, including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH), in adults - as an add-on to a heart-healthy diet and statin therapy

Pros and Cons for Leqvio

Pros

Helps lower "bad" cholesterol by about 50% when used with a statin
Given twice a year (after two starter doses)
Few side effects

Cons

Must be given as an injection under the skin by a healthcare professional at their clinic
Must be used with statin therapy
Doesn't replace having a balanced diet and regular exercise plan to help lower cholesterol levels

Common Side Effects for Leqvio

Injection site reactions (e.g., pain, redness, rash; 8%)

Summary for Repatha

Prescription only

Repatha (evolocumab) is a PCSK9 inhibitor that's given as an injection under the skin. It treats high cholesterol in adults and certain children. It works best with a heart-healthy diet and regular exercise. Repatha (evolocumab) also helps lower the risk of events like heart-related death, heart attack, and stroke in adults at risk. The medication is injected either once every 2 weeks or once a month. Side effects can include common cold symptoms and discomfort at the injection site.

Indications for Repatha

High cholesterol in adults
Heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) in people ages 10 years and older
Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) in people ages 10 years and older
Lowering the risk of heart-related death, heart attack, stroke, hospitalization for chest pain, and the need for heart procedures in adults at risk

Pros and Cons for Repatha

Pros

Taken once every 2 weeks or once a month
Can use for inherited cholesterol conditions in kids 10 years and up
Has different injection devices to choose from (prefilled syringe, autoinjector, or on-body infusor)

Cons

Must give as an injection under the skin
Might cause reactions at the injection site like redness and pain
Caution use in people with a latex allergy for syringes and autoinjectors (some have parts made with natural rubber)