Open AccessPCSK9 inhibitor access barriers—issues and recommendations: Improving the access process for patients, clinicians and payers
Author(s) -
Baum Seth J.,
Toth Peter P.,
Underberg James A.,
Jellinger Paul,
Ross Joyce,
Wilemon Katherine
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
clinical cardiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.263
H-Index - 72
eISSN - 1932-8737
pISSN - 0160-9289
DOI - 10.1002/clc.22713
Subject(s) - alirocumab , evolocumab , medicine , pcsk9 , atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease , familial hypercholesterolemia , family medicine , disease , intensive care medicine , cholesterol , lipoprotein , ldl receptor , apolipoprotein a1
The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors or monoclonal antibodies likely represent the greatest advance in lipid management in 30 years. In 2015 the US Food and Drug Administration approved both alirocumab and evolocumab for high‐risk patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease requiring additional lowering of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Though many lipid specialists, cardiovascular disease prevention experts, endocrinologists, and others prescribed the drugs on label, they found their directives denied 80% to 90% of the time. The high frequency of denials prompted the American Society for Preventive Cardiology (ASPC), to gather multiple stakeholder organizations including the American College of Cardiology, National Lipid Association, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), and FH Foundation for 2 town hall meetings to identify access issues and implement viable solutions. This article reviews findings recognized and solutions suggested by experts during these discussions. The article is a product of the ASPC, along with each author writing as an individual and endorsed by the AACE.