What is the difference between Leqvio and Repatha?
Both Leqvio and Repatha are injectable medicines used to lower low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels (also referred to as "bad cholesterol"). While they target the same protein (PCSK9), they work differently to help your body manage cholesterol levels.
How They Work
Leqvio:
- Stops PCSK9 production at its source
- Blocks the instructions (mRNA) that create PCSK9
- Given by healthcare providers twice yearly
- Drug class: PCSK9 inhibitor (subclass: small interfering RNA [siRNA])
Repatha:
- Directly blocks existing PCSK9
- Works like a shield to protect cholesterol receptors
- Self-injectable every 2-4 weeks
- Drug class: PCSK9 inhibitor (subclass: human monoclonal antibody)
Who Can Use These Medications?
Leqvio is approved for:
- Adults with high cholesterol caused by genetic reasons (primary hyperlipidemia) to lower LDL-C alongside statin therapy and dietary changes
- Includes those with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH).
Repatha can be used by:
- People with established cardiovascular (CV) disease to reduce the risk of major adverse events such as a heart attack, stroke, unstable angina requiring hospitalization of CV death)
- Adults and children 10+ with primary hyperlipidemia including HeFH to reduce LDL-C alongside diet, alone, or in combination with other LDL-C lowering treatments
- Patients 10+ with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) to reduce LDL-C alongside other LDL-C lowering treatments
- People needing additional cholesterol management
Treatment Schedule
Leqvio:
- First two doses 3 months apart
- Then just twice per year
- Must be given by healthcare provider
Repatha:
- Given every 2-4 weeks
- Can be self-administered at home
- More frequent but flexible scheduling
Working with Other Treatments
Both medications:
- Can be used with statins
- Support lifestyle changes
- Have no known drug interactions
Work best with:
- Healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Weight management
- Smoking cessation
| Levqio | Repatha | |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Inclisiran | Evolocumab |
| Company | Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation | Amgen |
| FDA Approval date | Dec 2021 | Aug 2015 |
| Generic availability | None | None |
| Drug class | PCSK9 inhibitor (subclass: small interfering RNA [siRNA]) | PCSK9 inhibitor (subclass: human monoclonal antibody) |
| Dosage form | Subcutaneous injection (administered by a healthcare professional) | Subcutaneous injection (self-administered) |
| Use | Reduces LDL cholesterol levels | Reduces LDL cholesterol levels |
| Indicated for |
|
|
| Dosing schedule and administration | Once every 6 months (2 doses per year)* | Once every 2 to 4 weeks |
| Common side effects |
|
|
| Warnings and precautions | No contraindications listed | Rarely, serious hypersensitivity reactions may occur; monitor for any signs of a rash or anaphylaxis and discontinue if noted |
| Approximate cost | $6,500 per year | $6,228 per year |
*After an initial course of 2 injections, 3 months apart
Related questions
References
- Leqvio (inclisiran) Prescribing Information. FDA Access Data. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/214012lbl.pdf
- Leqvio (inclisiran) [Package Insert] Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation https://www.novartis.com/us-en/sites/novartis_us/files/leqvio.pdf
- What is Leqvio. Leqvio.com. https://www.leqvio.com/what-is-leqvio
- Repatha (evolocumab). Updated 01/2021. Amgen USA Inc.https://www.drugs.com/pro/repatha.html
- US FDA approves expanded indication for Novartis Leqvio® (inclisiran) to include treatment of adults with high LDL-C and who are at increased risk of heart disease. July 10, 2023. https://www.novartis.com/us-en/news/media-releases/us-fda-approves-expanded-indication-novartis-leqvio-inclisiran-include-treatment-adults-high-ldl-c-and-who-are-increased-risk-heart-disease
Read next
What is the best time of day to take Repatha?
You can inject Repatha at any time of the day, but usually people prefer injecting Repatha during daylight hours because it takes 30 to 45 minutes for it to warm up to room temperature, and you need to be able to easily see what you are doing while you are injecting it. Continue reading
How long can Repatha be kept unrefrigerated?
Repatha can be left unrefrigerated for up to 30 days at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) as long as it is kept in its original box and is not kept somewhere that gets hotter than 77°F (25°C), for example, a car glove box. This makes it easier to take your medicine with you when you’re on the go. Do not put Repatha back in the refrigerator once you have taken it out. Continue reading
Can Repatha cause high blood pressure?
Repatha can cause high blood pressure (hypertension) as a side effect. Continue reading
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