High Cholesterol Affects 71 Million Americans

High Cholesterol Affects 71 Million Americans -33.5% of adults have high levels of low- density lipoprotein-LDL-C, or 'bad cholesterol' Fewer than half get treatment Only 1 in 3 has the condition under control Lowering cholesterol levels is a major goal Why? How? To reduce the risk of heart disease, cardiovascular adverse Statins are effective for most-not all-people events and death The CVS/caremark formulary strategy ensures access to medications that will help people successfully treat high cholesterol. Backbone of treatment: statins Statins (e.g. atorvastatin, Crestor) have been established as safe and effective for most people. They reduce LDL-C and the risk of adverse cardiovascular events. M Additional Formulary Options Fibrates, niacin, cholesterol absorption inhibitors such as ezetemibe (Zetia and others-are available for members requiring an altermate or additional therapy to reach their treatment goals. New Treatment Options- PCSK9 Inhibitors Two new cholesterol-lowering agents were approved in 2015: Praluent from Sanofi/Regeneron; Repatha from Amgen New Specialty Class-PCSK9 Inhibitors Injectables intended to help patients manage severely high cholesterol levels Priced over $14,000/yr The independent National Pharmacy and Therapeutics (P&T) Committee carefully evaluated both PCSK9 inhibitors and determined the drugs to be therapeutically equivalent, a decision that has been corroborated by consultation with board-certified specialists in both cardiology and endocrinology. CVS/caremark has determined that choosing a single PCSK9 inhibitor- RepathaTM– for their standard commercial formularies allows it to get the best price possible for clients and preserves its commitment to deliver the best care available. It also recommends alignment with its standard commercial formulary and that clients apply CVS/caremark utilization management strategy to ensure appropriate patient access while helping to contain cost. For custom formulary clients looking for a less aggressive stance, both PCSK9 inhibitors can be included, but they caution that thisapproach will yield greater net costs. VCVSHealth Discover more: www.cvshealth.com 1. http://www.cdc.gov/cholusturol/facts.htm, accessed July 21, 2015. © 2015 CVS Health. All rights reserved. 106-36478i 112315