Episode 505: A Breakthrough in Cholesterol Care With an Oral PCSK9 Inhibitor
Heart Doc VIP with Dr. Joel KahnShow Notes
This week, Dr. Kahn discusses the FDA approval of the first oral PCSK9 inhibitor, Lipfendra (enclicitide), taken as a 20 mg daily tablet. In a study of nearly 3,000 patients with elevated LDL cholesterol despite treatment with statins and, in many cases, ezetimibe, LDL-C dropped by more than 50% while Lipoprotein(a) levels fell by 28%, with an excellent safety profile. The medication is expected to retail for approximately $315 per month and will be available in pharmacies soon. A larger outcomes trial evaluating its impact on heart attack and stroke rates is currently underway. Other topics include oatmeal for diabetes, avocados for cholesterol, ketogenic diets and cancer, serotonin and heart valve disease, air pollution and cardiovascular events, and the relationship between sweetened beverages, fruit juice, and high blood pressure. Dr. Kahn also mentions the air filtration system he uses at home and in his office, available at: airdoctorpro.com Finally, thanks to this week's sponsor, the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club. Learn more at getfreshDrKahn.com.
More from Heart Doc VIP with Dr. Joel Kahn
Exercise is one of the most powerful tools we have to protect our heart health at every stage of life. This week, Dr. Kahn explores a new statement from the American College of Cardiology emphasizing the importance of physical activity throughout our lives. Sadly, fewer than 20% of teens meet the criteria for optimal cardiovascular health, highlighting a major opportunity to make movement and exercise a bigger part of everyday life in our schools and workplaces. The benefits go far beyond the heart—from head to toe!
This week, Dr. Kahn presents the case of a patient seen this month at the Kahn Center for Cardiac Longevity who, over the course of five years, has reversed artery aging and plaque and is enjoying excellent health. He discusses the program used to achieve these benefits. This case, along with many others from the Kahn Center, offers hope for maintaining youthful arteries throughout your life.
This week, Dr. Kahn presents a new scientific statement by the American College of Cardiology on nutrition to prevent heart disease. The emphasis is on plant-based choices while limiting red meat, processed foods, and excess added sugar. Sometimes, hearing the same recommendation over and over can help.
This week, as a bonus, Dr. Kahn interviews a Detroit clothing legend, Phil, who celebrated his 100th birthday recently by buying a new sports car! He is approaching his 78th wedding anniversary with his beautiful wife. He discussed his early days in business and early successes, and his health journey, relying a lot on the education he got by repeatedly visiting the Pritikin Longevity Center.
This week, Dr. Kahn brings back the topic of Mankai Duckweed, the smallest edible plant, which provides a complete protein profile, >200 polyphenols, B12, choline, folate, Omega-3s, and other nutrients. Mankai was previously available as a frozen cube but has returned to the market as a user-friendly powder. Mankai is available here: partners.eatmankai.com/AA-DRKAHN