STAT+: Novartis’ experimental cardiovascular drug fails a pivotal study

Other companies, including Amgen and Eli Lilly, are also developing therapies to lower Lp(a) levels Ruby Wallau for STAT Andrew covers the biopharma industry, scientific research, and public health across the continent. You can reach Andrew confidentially on Signal at drewqjoseph.71. A closely watched cardiovascular drug from Novartis failed in a pivotal study, the company said Friday, a major blow to the firm and to efforts to target a common heart disease risk factor. The drug, called pelacarsen, had shown in earlier trials that it could drastically lower levels of what’s called Lp(a), a little blob of lipids and proteins that at elevated concentrations increases the likelihood of severe heart problems. But Novartis said that in the Phase 3 HORIZON trial, pelacarsen failed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death or emergencies like heart attacks or stroke compared to placebo. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus daily coverage and analysis of the pharma industry — by subscribing to STAT+. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe Andrew covers the biopharma industry, scientific research, and public health across the continent. You can reach Andrew confidentially on Signal at drewqjoseph.71.