Alirocumab
Alirocumab is a monoclonal antibody medication used to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia who need additional lipid-lowering therapy. It is prescribed for adults with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease or heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia who require additional LDL-C reduction.
Alirocumab is a PCSK9 inhibitor that lowers LDL cholesterol by blocking a protein that causes liver receptors to break down.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C10AX14
- RxNorm
- 1659152
- Generic
- Alirocumab
- Class
- atc-c10
- Brands
- Praluent
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of primary hypercholesterolemia (heterozygous familial and non-familial) and mixed dyslipidemia in adults who require additional LDL-C reduction despite maximally tolerated statin therapy. Also indicated for homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia in combination with other lipid-lowering therapies.
Alirocumab is a human monoclonal antibody that binds to and inhibits PCSK9, a protein that normally binds to LDL receptors on liver cells and promotes their breakdown. By blocking PCSK9, more LDL receptors remain on the liver cell surface to capture and remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, thereby reducing LDL-C levels.
Administered as a subcutaneous injection every 2 weeks. Common side effects include injection site reactions, influenza, and upper respiratory tract infections. Patients should be monitored for allergic reactions. Not recommended for use during pregnancy unless clearly necessary.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy