Health Tips: Revolutionary Treatments: Just Two Injections Annually for Cholesterol, Fatty Liver, and Kidney Diseases

The modern lifestyle has led to a significant increase in the prevalence of high cholesterol, fatty liver, and chronic kidney diseases, posing a major health challenge for millions across India. Factors such as poor dietary habits, increased sugar consumption, and rising obesity rates have. Exacerbated the burden of these conditions, leading to considerable daily struggles for affected individuals. However, recent advancements in medical science and the pharmaceutical industry have brought forth a new wave of hope in the management and treatment of these diseases. Collaborations between global innovators and Indian pharmaceutical companies have resulted in the development of novel drugs that offer more effective and convenient options for combating these serious health issues.

Revolutionizing High Cholesterol Treatment: Moving Beyond Statins

For a long time, statins were the primary option for managing high levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol. While effective for many, statins sometimes proved insufficient for certain patients or caused undesirable side effects. Now, PCSK9 inhibitors have emerged as a game-changer for individuals. With high cholesterol, fundamentally shifting the approach to cholesterol management. These innovative medications work through a unique mechanism to control cholesterol. Levels in the body, offering a more targeted and potent solution.

Understanding the Mechanism of PCSK9 Inhibitors

PCSK9 inhibitors work by helping the liver clear LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, while they achieve this by blocking a specific protein, PCSK9, which normally renders the liver inefficient at this crucial clearing process. By inhibiting this protein, these drugs allow the liver to function more effectively in regulating cholesterol. This targeted approach enhances the body's natural processes, leading to a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol levels. Two prominent drugs in this category are either available or soon to be available in the Indian market, providing patients with improved treatment choices.

Key Players and Their Offerings in Cholesterol Management

Evolocumab (Repatha), sold in India by Dr. Reddy's under license from Amgen, represents a significant advancement, while its cost ranges from ₹19,000–₹21,000 per injection, with two monthly doses amounting to over ₹30,000. Another breakthrough is Inclisiran (Leqvio) from Novartis, an siRNA therapy marketed under local brands such as Sybrava, Crenzlo, and Izirize. Unlike Evolocumab, which blocks the PCSK9 protein after it's formed, Inclisiran works by preventing the liver from producing the PCSK9 protein from the outset. This innovative approach requires only two doses a year, offering unparalleled convenience for patients. Each shot is priced at ₹1. 2 lakh, reflecting its high efficacy and reduced dosing frequency.

A Historic Breakthrough in Fatty Liver Disease (MASLD/MASH)

Fatty liver disease, now frequently referred to as MASLD (Metabolic-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease) and its more severe form, MASH (Metabolic-Associated Steatohepatitis), has been a major chronic illness in India with no specific cure until recently. This condition often leads to liver inflammation and scarring (fibrosis), increasing the risk of liver failure, while however, the landscape of treatment has dramatically changed in 2024–25, bringing new hope to millions of patients.

Resmetirom: The First-Ever Approved Treatment

Other Promising Therapies for Liver Health

Resmetirom (Rezdiffra) received approval from the USFDA last year for the treatment of liver scarring (fibrosis), marking it as the first drug in history specifically approved for this condition. This medication works by targeting the thyroid hormone receptor in the. Liver, effectively reducing liver fat, healing scars, and also lowering LDL cholesterol. While this daily pill isn't yet launched in India, Indian players like Morpen, Dr. Reddy's, and Mankind are preparing to launch it after the main patent expires. In 2026, promising to make it more affordable and accessible to a wider population. GLP-1 drugs, such as Novo Nordisk's Semaglutide and Eli Lilly's Tirzepatide (originally developed. For diabetes and weight loss), have also proven effective in reducing liver fat. On top of that, Zydus Lifesciences' Saroglitazar (Lipaglyn) is available for NASH at a cost of ₹1,500–₹2,000 per month, providing an affordable option in India, while these diverse options allow patients to choose treatments based on their specific needs and financial capabilities, enhancing the overall management of fatty liver disease.

Managing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Slowing the Silent Killer

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is often dubbed a 'silent killer' because it typically presents no obvious symptoms in its early stages. Primarily caused by diabetes and high blood pressure, CKD progressively impairs kidney function, while however, new medications have played a crucial role in slowing this progression and improving the quality of life for patients.

SGLT2 Inhibitors: A Dual Benefit for Kidney Health

SGLT2 inhibitors like AstraZeneca's Dapagliflozin (Forxiga) and Boehringer Ingelheim's Empagliflozin (Jardiance) are instrumental in reducing pressure on the kidneys and slowing down damage, while these drugs not only help manage diabetes but also offer significant renoprotective benefits. While innovator brands cost ₹1,400–₹1,600 per month, Indian generics are available for a much more affordable ₹150–₹300, making this vital treatment accessible to millions. This affordability is critical in a country like India, where the economic burden of chronic diseases can be substantial.

Finerenone: Targeting Fibrosis and Inflammation in Kidneys

Bayer's Finerenone, a non-steroidal Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonist (MRA), specifically blocks mineralocorticoid receptors to prevent fibrosis (scarring) and inflammation in the kidneys. This drug represents another significant advance in CKD management, particularly for patients who. May not have diabetes or who haven't found sufficient relief from other treatments. Available at a monthly cost of ₹1,400–₹1,800, Finerenone offers an effective. Option for preserving kidney health and slowing the progression of the disease. Its targeted action helps address a key pathological pathway in CKD, offering a more comprehensive approach to treatment.

Conclusion: A Future of Hope and Accessibility

These medical innovations bring renewed hope to millions of Indians grappling with high cholesterol, fatty liver, and chronic kidney disease. With targeted treatments, reduced dosing frequencies, and the increasing availability of affordable generic options from Indian pharmaceutical companies, the management of these serious illnesses is becoming more effective and accessible than ever before, while this progress won't only improve the quality of life for patients but also help alleviate the burden of these chronic diseases on public health in India. In the coming years, the widespread availability of these medications is expected to lead to significant improvements in health outcomes across the nation, fostering a healthier future for all.