The Claim
Bempedoic acid increases the incidence of gout and cholelithiasis in statin-intolerant patients, with incidence rates of 3.1% and 2.2% respectively, compared to 2.1% and 1.2% in placebo.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
In patients who cannot tolerate statins, taking bempedoic acid results in a higher rate of gout (3.1% vs 2.1%) and gallstones (2.2% vs 1.2%) compared to taking a placebo.
See the scientific wording
Bempedoic acid increases the risk of gout and cholelithiasis in statin-intolerant patients, with incidence rates of 3.1% and 2.2% respectively compared to 2.1% and 1.2% in placebo, indicating a clinically relevant adverse effect profile.
Bempedoic acid blocks a liver enzyme that makes cholesterol, causing the liver to produce more bile acids and uric acid. The extra bile acids lead to cholesterol buildup in the gallbladder, forming stones. The extra uric acid builds up in the blood and forms crystals in joints, causing gout.
What the research says
1 studyStudy: Bempedoic Acid and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Statin-Intolerant Patients.
The study found that people taking bempedoic acid had a slightly higher chance of getting gout and gallstones compared to those taking a placebo—about 1 in 32 got gout and 1 in 45 got gallstones, which matches the claim.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.