How Do MTP Inhibitors Work?

Lipid-lowering agents also known as cholesterol-lowering, hypolipidemic, or antihyperlipidemic agents are a group of drugs used to reduce high levels of lipids (fats) and lipoproteins (fats with protein) in the blood. These drugs are used to treat cardiovascular abnormalities such as atherosclerosis (build-up of fats and other substances in the wall of arteries, causing obstruction of blood flow) and decrease the risk of potential heart attacks. Lipid-lowering agents include:

• 2-Azetidiones
• Adenosine triphosphate-citrate lyase inhibitors
• Apolipoprotein B antisense oligonucleotides
• Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) inhibitors
• Statins (β-hydroxy β-methylglutaryl-CoA [HMG-CoA] reductase inhibitors)
• Fibrates
• Bile acid sequestrants
• Omega 3 acids
• Vitamin B3

MTP inhibitors are a new class of drugs that work by inhibiting MTP present within the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum in the liver cells. MTP mediates triglyceride absorption and chylomicron secretion from the intestine and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) secretion from the liver by linking lipid molecules with apolipoprotein B (ApoB). Inhibition of MTP reduces the level of all ApoB-containing lipoproteins, including LDL

MTP inhibitors are taken orally and used to treat:

• Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (a life-threatening genetic condition that increases LDL cholesterol levels in the body)

The most common side effects of MTP inhibitors include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Indigestion
• Abdominal discomfort
• Fever
• Flu-like symptoms
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Flatulence (excess release of gas)
• Tiredness
• Back pain
• Headache
• Dizziness

Rare but serious side effects of MTP inhibitors may include:

• Liver toxicity (damage to the liver caused by the toxic nature of the drug)
  • Increase in liver enzymes
  • Increase in bilirubin levels
• Chest pain
• Palpitations (heart beats too fast and may skip a beat)

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of MTP inhibitors drugs include:

• Lomitapide (Juxtapid)