Enlicitide
Also known as: Lipfendra, MK-0616, Enlicitide decanoate
An oral macrocyclic peptide PCSK9 inhibitor that lowers LDL cholesterol. FDA-approved as Lipfendra (2026) by Merck. Prescription medication.
Last updated
Mechanism of Action
Enlicitide is a macrocyclic peptide that binds PCSK9, the protein that tags LDL receptors on liver cells for destruction. By blocking PCSK9 from binding the LDL receptor, it lets more receptors recycle to the cell surface and clear LDL cholesterol from the blood, the same pathway targeted by injectable antibodies such as evolocumab. It is formulated with an absorption enhancer (sodium caprate), and oral bioavailability is still low, around 1%.
- Half-life
- Not well established
- Administration Routes
- Oral
- Research Status
- Clinical
Reported Benefits
- Lowers LDL cholesterol in adults with hypercholesterolemia, including HeFH
- About 55-60% placebo-adjusted LDL-C reduction at 24 weeks (CORALreef)
- First oral PCSK9 inhibitor; cardiovascular outcomes trial ongoing
Potential Side Effects
- Generally similar to placebo in phase 3 trials
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness (numerically more frequent in the HeFH trial)
Common Dosing
Lipfendra is labeled as one 20 mg tablet once daily, taken on an empty stomach in the morning with a wait before eating, as an adjunct to diet and other lipid-lowering therapy. Dosing is set and supervised by the prescribing clinician.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- No contraindications listed on the US label
- Effect on heart attack, stroke and death not yet established
No documented stacking partners for Enlicitide yet.