Effective LDL Reduction: A proven path to a healthy heart
LDL-C is the Primary Target:
Focus lipid-lowering strategies on reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) to minimize cardiovascular risk.
Risk-Based Goals:
Tailor LDL-C targets based on individual patient risk—lower targets are essential for higher-risk individuals.
Aggressive Targets for Very High-Risk Patients:
Aim for LDL-C levels <55 mg/dL, and <40 mg/dL in selected very high-risk patients, as per ESC guidelines.
Maximal LDL-C Reduction = Maximal Vascular Benefit:
The greater the LDL-C lowering, the greater the reduction in vascular events.
Start Early, Especially After Acute Events:
Initiate intensive LDL-C-lowering therapy promptly after acute vascular events to maximize benefit.
Combination Therapy is Key:
- Lifestyle modifications form the foundation.
- Statins are first-line pharmacotherapy, including in elderly patients.
- Add-on therapies like ezetimibe and PCSK9 inhibitors help achieve target levels in high-risk cases.
Guideline-Driven Approach:
Adhere to the latest ESC guidelines and emerging evidence to guide treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes.
Conclusion
Achieving and maintaining very low LDL-C levels—especially in high-risk patients—is essential to reducing vascular events. Early and intensive lipid-lowering therapy, beginning with statins and complemented by ezetimibe and PCSK9 inhibitors when needed, should be combined with a healthy lifestyle to optimize outcomes and meet guideline-recommended targets.
