CVS Health chooses single PCSK9 inhibitor

CVS announced Monday that Repatha will be the only PCSK9 inhibitor added to its market. 

CVS studied two types of these inhibitors and both were approved by the Federal Drug Administration, but ultimately, they chose PCSK9.

 “CVS Health is committed to providing high-quality medications for our clients and their members at the lowest possible cost,” Troyen A. Brennan, MD, MPH, executive vice president and Chief Medical Officer, CVS Health, said. “We have determined that choosing a single PCSK9 inhibitor for our commercial formularies allows us to get the best price possible for clients and preserves our commitment to deliver the best care available.”

Brennan then explained why he believes statins will continue to be the primary choice of care for those with high cholesterol.

“We believe patients should have access to the right medication, at the right time and for the right reason. We anticipate that for most members with high cholesterol, statins will remain the standard of care, given long-standing evidence that they prevent heart disease and the fact that they are extremely cost-effective,” Brennan said.