Lipfendra Information
Lipfendra (Enlicitide) is an oral prescription medication that complements diet and exercise to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), often called "bad" cholesterol, in adults with hypercholesterolemia, including heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH). By reducing elevated LDL-C levels, this therapy helps mitigate long-term cardiovascular risks such as heart attacks and strokes. The active ingredient in Lipfendra is enlicitide, a novel macrocyclic peptide. It belongs to a class of medications known as PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) inhibitors, the first of which is available in oral tablet form. It works by binding directly to the PCSK9 enzyme, preventing it from interacting with and degrading LDL receptors on hepatocytes (liver cells). With more functional receptors preserved on the cell surface, the liver can efficiently capture and clear circulating LDL-C from the bloodstream.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Lipfendra, manufactured in Canada by MSD, in 20 mg tablets. This product is currently unavailable (at this pharmacy).
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Lipfendra. The most common side effects of Lipfendra may include the following:
• Diarrhea;
• Dizziness;
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Allergic Reaction: Rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing;
These are not all of Lipfendra's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take Lipfendra if you are allergic to enlicitide or any of its ingredients. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have liver disease;
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription medications, OTC medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Lipfendra can be taken together with a statin if your doctor determines this combination is appropriate, as the two medications lower cholesterol through different mechanisms.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if Lipfendra is safe to take during pregnancy, and because of how it works to lower cholesterol, it could potentially harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking Lipfendra, stop taking it and tell your doctor right away. It is not known whether enlicitide passes into human breast milk.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes it. Lipfendra comes as a tablet to be taken orally once daily in the morning on an empty stomach, with water, black coffee, or plain tea. Swallow the tablet whole; do not cut, crush, or chew it. Wait at least 30 minutes after taking Lipfendra before eating or drinking anything else. Lipfendra does not require dose titration or refrigeration.
Store Lipfendra at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). Keep tablets in their original packaging until use and keep out of the reach of children.