Key Takeaways

Merck’s new pill, enlicitide, lowered LDL cholesterol by up to 60% in a new trial

The pill works just as well as traditional PCSK9 injections but could cost less

Researchers hope to receive federal approval in 2026 and launch the drug in 2027

THURSDAY, Nov. 13, 2025 (HealthDay News) — A new pill from Merck could change how millions of people treat high cholesterol and help prevent heart attacks and strokes without the need for injections.

The drug, called enlicitide, slashes levels of harmful LDL cholesterol by up to 60%, similar to injectable PCSK9 drugs already on the market.

The pill blocks a liver protein called PCSK9, which slows the body’s ability to clear cholesterol from the blood.

“Lower is better for sure,” University of Pennsylvania cardiologist Dr. D

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