Story perspectives

FDA approves Merck's $300 oral PCSK9, slashes LDL 60%

7/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Merck’s oral PCSK9 inhibitor Lipfendra on July 16, 2026.
In two late-stage trials, Lipfendra lowered LDL cholesterol by 56% to 60%.
The 20-mg pill is taken once daily and can be combined with statins.
Lipfendra’s list price is about $300 a month, cheaper than injectable PCSK9 drugs that cost $500-$600 monthly.
The approval covers adults with hypercholesterolemia, including those with familial hypercholesterolemia.

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Story summary

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Merck’s oral PCSK9 inhibitor Lipfendra on July 16, 2026.
In two late-stage trials, Lipfendra lowered LDL cholesterol by 56% to 60%.
The 20-mg pill is taken once daily and can be combined with statins.
Lipfendra’s list price is about $300 a month, cheaper than injectable PCSK9 drugs that cost $500-$600 monthly.
The approval covers adults with hypercholesterolemia, including those with familial hypercholesterolemia.