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Nexletol (Bempedoic acid) Information

Nexletol, which contains the active ingredient bempedoic acid, is a non-statin cholesterol-lowering medication. It belongs to a class of drugs called adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase (ACL) inhibitors. It is used in adults with high "bad" cholesterol (LDL) who need additional lowering beyond their regular diet and maximally tolerated statin therapy, or for those who are unable to take statins at all. It is also approved to reduce the risk of heart attack and certain heart procedures in patients with established heart disease or those at high risk. The medication is taken by mouth as a tablet, typically once daily. It can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. To ensure it remains effective, it should be taken consistently at the same time each day, and your doctor will likely check your cholesterol levels 8 to 12 weeks after you begin treatment.

The mechanism of action involves blocking an enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol. Unlike statins, Nexletol is a "prodrug" that is only activated in the liver and not in skeletal muscle. This specific targeting is why Nexletol is much less likely to cause the muscle-related side effects commonly associated with statin drugs.

Nexletol Side Effects

Nexletol is generally well-tolerated, but common side effects may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Commonly reported effects include upper respiratory tract infections (like the common cold), muscle spasms, back pain, abdominal pain or discomfort, and bronchitis. Some patients may also experience anemia (low red blood cell count) or pain in the arms or legs.

More serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the medication and seek help if you experience:
• Gallstones: Severe stomach pain, particularly after eating fatty foods. • Gout: Severe joint pain, especially in the big toe, accompanied by warmth, redness, and swelling.
• Liver enzyme elevation: Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), dark urine, or severe right-sided stomach pain.
• Severe allergic reactions: Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue; hives; or significant difficulty breathing.
• Tendon rupture or injury: Sudden pain, swelling, or a "pop" in the shoulder, arm, or back of the ankle (Achilles tendon).

Nexletol Precautions

Do not use Nexletol if you have a known allergy to bempedoic acid or any inactive ingredient in the medication. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor of your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of gout, high uric acid levels, or previous tendon problems.

Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements (such as St. John's wort). Nexletol has significant interactions with many drugs, especially with corticosteroids or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, as these can further increase the risk of tendon injury. Nexletol can also interact with certain statins, specifically simvastatin and pravastatin. If you take these, your doctor may need to lower your statin dose to avoid increased side effects.

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Nexletol may cause harm to a developing fetus based on how it works in the body. It is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks, and it should be discontinued once pregnancy is recognized. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for a period after the final dose, as the drug's effects on nursing infants are not yet known.

Take Nexletol exactly as your doctor tells you. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew them. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Never take two doses at once. Store the tablets at room temperature in their original container to protect them from moisture, and keep them safely out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Nexletol?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Nexletol.