Novartis and Ionis's pelacarsen fails to cut heart events despite lowering Lp(a) levels

Novartis and Ionis reported that pelacarsen, an RNA therapy aimed at lowering lipoprotein(a), did not reduce major cardiovascular events in a Phase 3 trial of over 8,000 patients. The study compared pelacarsen plus standard care against standard care and placebo and found no difference in heart attacks, strokes or death.

Although the drug achieved a substantial reduction in Lp(a) levels, this biochemical change did not translate into clinical benefit. The trial’s negative outcome raises questions about the strategy of targeting Lp(a) as a means to protect heart health.

Novartis said the results were disappointing but may guide future cardiovascular approaches. Detailed data will be presented at an upcoming medical meeting.