Anacetrapib
Review asks whether anacetrapib, the fourth CETP inhibitor tested, finally outperforms its predecessor drugs (Cardiol Rev 2019)
Original title: Is Anacetrapib Better Than Its CETP Inhibitor Counterparts?
Statins remain the most widely used and effective agents for reducing cardiovascular risk, yet heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, motivating continued interest in other lipid pathways. This review focuses on HDL metabolism and transport, particularly CETP inhibitors, noting that earlier drugs in the class had not shown significant improvement in primary or secondary cardiovascular risk prevention. The authors argue that anacetrapib, the fourth and most recently investigated CETP inhibitor, may prove more promising than its predecessors, and the review examines the evidence and open questions behind that possibility.
Original abstract
Cholesterol metabolism and transport has been a major focus in cardiovascular disease risk modification over the past several decades. Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) have been the most commonly used agents, with the greatest benefit in reducing both the primary and secondary risks of cardiovascular disease. However, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in both men and women in the United States. Further investigation and intervention are required to further reduce the risk for cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular-related deaths. This review will focus on high-density lipoprotein metabolism and transport, looking particularly at cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitors. While studies of the other CETP inhibitors in its class have not shown a significant improvement in the prevention of primary or secondary cardiovascular risk, anacetrapib, the fourth and latest of the CETP inhibitors to be investigated, may be more promising.
anacetrapibthe classoutcomes trials
Summary written by cetpinhibition.org from the published abstract; figures as published. Page updated 18 August 2026. Methods.