Novartis’ experimental cholesterol drug pelacarsen failed to reduce cardiovascular events in a major late-stage trial despite lowering levels of the harmful cholesterol Lp(a), raising concerns across a multibillion-dollar drug race, according to CNBC.
The drug, developed with Ionis Pharmaceuticals, was tested on more than 8,000 patients. Analysts said the results weaken, but do not eliminate, the theory that lowering Lp(a) can prevent heart attacks and strokes.
The report said Lp(a) is largely determined by genetics and is not significantly affected by diet or exercise. There is currently no approved treatment specifically targeting it.
Analysts noted that improved existing cardiovascular care may have made it harder for experimental drugs to demonstrate additional benefits. Novartis plans to release detailed trial results at an upcoming medical meeting.
Related Tweet:
Cholesterol drug setback casts doubt over multibillion-dollar race https://t.co/6rBEHo5w8i
— CNBC (@CNBC) September 8, 2026
Also Read:
TIPP Staff
