What are the side effects of Bempedoic acid?

Bempedoic acid is a medication used to treat high cholesterol levels, particularly in patients who are unable to tolerate statins or need additional lipid-lowering therapy. While it can be an effective treatment to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, like any medication, bempedoic acid can have side effects. Understanding these potential side effects is essential for both patients and healthcare providers to manage and mitigate any adverse reactions.

One of the most common side effects of bempedoic acid is muscle pain or spasms. Muscle-related symptoms are frequently reported by patients and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that can interfere with daily activities. This can be particularly concerning for individuals who are already dealing with muscle issues from other medications, such as statins.

Another notable side effect is an increase in uric acid levels. Elevated uric acid can lead to gout, a type of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in joints. Patients with a history of gout should be closely monitored while taking bempedoic acid, and healthcare providers may need to adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Gastrointestinal issues are also relatively common. Patients may experience nausea, diarrhea, or constipation while taking bempedoic acid. These symptoms are usually mild to moderate in severity but can still be bothersome and may affect adherence to the medication regimen.

In addition to these common side effects, some patients may experience an increase in liver enzymes. Elevated liver enzymes can indicate liver inflammation or damage, so routine liver function tests are often recommended for patients on bempedoic acid. It is crucial to report any symptoms of liver problems, such as jaundice, dark urine, or severe fatigue, to a healthcare provider immediately.

Respiratory tract infections, including nasopharyngitis, bronchitis, and sinusitis, have also been reported among those taking bempedoic acid. While these infections are generally not severe, they can pose additional risks, especially for individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions.

Furthermore, bempedoic acid may cause an increased risk of developing tendon rupture or injury. Tendon problems can occur in the shoulder, biceps, hands, or Achilles tendon. Patients are advised to stop the medication and seek medical attention if they experience sudden pain, swelling, or bruising in the affected area.

Another potential side effect is hyperuricemia, a condition characterized by excess uric acid in the blood. This condition is closely related to gout and can contribute to the development of kidney stones, so regular monitoring and appropriate hydration are advised for patients on bempedoic acid.

Though rare, some patients may experience allergic reactions to bempedoic acid. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Any signs of an allergic reaction should be treated as a medical emergency.

Patients should always discuss their complete medical history, including any current medications and preexisting conditions, with their healthcare provider before starting bempedoic acid. This ensures that the benefits of taking the medication outweigh the potential risks.

In conclusion, while bempedoic acid can be an effective treatment for lowering cholesterol, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects. Muscle pain, increased uric acid levels, gastrointestinal issues, elevated liver enzymes, respiratory tract infections, tendon injuries, hyperuricemia, and allergic reactions are among the side effects that patients may experience. Close monitoring and open communication with a healthcare provider can help manage these side effects and ensure the best possible outcome for the patient.