Novartis halts pelacarsen after Phase III trial shows no cardiovascular benefit
Novartis announced it will stop development of pelacarsen, an antisense drug that lowers lipoprotein(a). The HORIZON Phase III trial, led by Dr. Steven Nissen, lowered Lp(a) by about 78% but showed no reduction in heart attacks, strokes, cardiovascular deaths or revascularisation procedures. The study enrolled roughly 8,300‑8,350 high‑risk patients and followed them for about five years. The company will continue a separate mid‑stage study of pelacarsen for a different heart condition.
Why it matters
Novartis said the failure ends plans for a potential blockbuster and will remove pelacarsen from its cardiovascular pipeline, reducing future revenue prospects. No further Phase III study of pelacarsen for Lp(a) is planned.
Key facts
- 1Pelacarsen lowered lipoprotein(a) levels by about 78% versus 13% for placebo. nbcnews.com
- 2The trial reported zero decreases in stroke, heart attack, cardiovascular death or revascularisation procedures. nbcnews.com
- 3Novartis will halt development of pelacarsen for Lp(a) after the trial results. investing.com
- 4Novartis will continue a mid‑stage study of pelacarsen for a different heart condition. investing.com
Open questions
- Trial participant count differs: 8,322 patients versus 8,350 patients.
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 6 of 6 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.