Key takeaways
Nexletol (bempedoic acid) and Repatha (evolocumab) are both non-statin medications used to treat high cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart-related events. They are not in the same medication class, though. Nexletol is an ATP-citrate lyase (ACL) inhibitor, while Repatha is a proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor. Nexletol is taken orally once a day, whereas Repatha is given as an injection either every two weeks or once a month. Nexletol and Repatha are only available as brand-name medications. Common side effects of Nexletol include high uric acid levels and muscle spasms, while Repatha can cause cold symptoms and injection site reactions. Nexletol can be taken with or without food. Repatha requires careful handling and storage, including refrigeration. Additionally, Repatha can be used in children aged 10 and older for certain inherited cholesterol conditions, while Nexletol has not been studied in children.
