Pelacarsen for Cardiovascular Disease

(Lp(a)HORIZON Trial)

This trial tests a new treatment called Pelacarsen to determine if it can lower the risk of heart problems in individuals with cardiovascular disease and high levels of Lp(a) cholesterol. Participants will receive either Pelacarsen or a placebo (a harmless shot resembling the real treatment) through monthly injections. The trial seeks individuals who have experienced a heart attack, stroke, or serious artery disease in the past 3 to 10 years and have high Lp(a) levels. Those with these conditions might be suitable candidates for the trial. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to a potentially groundbreaking treatment.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research shows that pelacarsen, also known as TQJ230, is generally safe for people. Previous studies have found that most patients taking pelacarsen did not experience major side effects.

One study highlighted that pelacarsen is well-tolerated, meaning that while some people might have mild side effects, serious problems are rare. Overall, these findings suggest that pelacarsen is safe for most patients.

Unlike the standard treatments for cardiovascular disease, which often focus on managing symptoms and reducing risk factors, Pelacarsen (TQJ230) specifically targets lipoprotein(a), a known contributor to heart disease that is not addressed by most current therapies. This treatment is unique because it uses an innovative approach to lower lipoprotein(a) levels through monthly subcutaneous injections, potentially reducing cardiovascular events more effectively. Researchers are excited about Pelacarsen because it offers a new way to target a specific risk factor that many traditional therapies overlook, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disease.

Research has shown that pelacarsen, which participants in this trial may receive, can significantly lower levels of lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), a substance in the blood linked to a higher risk of heart disease. Studies have found that pelacarsen can reduce Lp(a) levels by 35% to 80% in people with heart disease due to high Lp(a). These reductions are promising because high Lp(a) is a known risk factor for heart problems. The treatment is also considered safe, allowing most people to use it without serious side effects. Early data suggests that pelacarsen could effectively lower the risk of heart-related issues in those with high Lp(a).¹²³⁴⁵