Novartis Heart Drug Pelacarsen Fails Phase 3 Trial Despite Lowering Lp(a) Protein

Novartis's experimental cardiovascular drug, pelacarsen, did not reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, or death in its Phase 3 clinical trial. This outcome occurred despite the drug successfully lowering Lp(a) blood protein levels, a known heart disease risk factor. The "crushing setback" has surprised cardiologists, prompting questions about the relationship between Lp(a) reduction and improved cardiovascular outcomes.