Abbott receives approval for Tripilix

Abbott’s delayed-release capsules for those needing help to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides has been approved in the US, it emerged this week.

Tripilix (fenofibric acid) is designed for use alongside a balanced diet and is also aimed at raising good cholesterol (HDL) in those with lipid problems.

According to the pharmaceutical manufacturer, it is the first fibrate given the go-ahead for use with a statin, which is the treatment guideline for some patients who need help further improving lipid levels.

The approval follows the study of Tripilix in 2,698 people, all of whom suffered from mixed dyslipidemia, characterised by low HDL and elevated LDL levels together with trigylicerides.

It was discovered that the product, when taken with statins (rosuvastatin, simvastatin and atorvastatin), assisted patients in managing each of these lipid levels more than other therapies.

However, Abbott noted that Tripilix has not displayed the ability to prevent heart attacks or heart disease.

Vice-president of global pharmaceutical clinical development Dr Eugene Sun said the clinical programme to support the product’s use was “robust”.

“Its approval adds a new option to Abbott’s growing dyslipidemia portfolio which provides treatments to comprehensively help address all three key lipids,” he added.

In related news, the company announced yesterday it is to present at the forthcoming JP Morgan healthcare conference in January.