Known as MK-0524A and MK-0524B, these two potential treatments were developed by Merck scientists working in Merck labs to address the continued significant unmet medical need for reducing the incidence of heart attack and stroke in patients at high risk.
An estimated 20 million Americans have low levels of HDL-C, or "good cholesterol." MK-0524A represents a novel approach to treating HDL-C and triglycerides, combining Merck's own extended release niacin with MK-0524. MK-0524A is being developed for use alone or with any of the cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins.
MK-0524A is also being studied in a combination tablet medicine with simvastatin. This product, known as MK-0524B, will combine the effects that have long been associated with Merck's own statin, Zocor, with the HDL-C-raising effects expected from MK-0524A. These two medicines are expected to help Merck remain a leader in cholesterol management through novel medicines that offer unique benefits to the patients we serve.
Merck recently announced two fixed-dose combination medicines in late-stage development that hold great promise for managing cholesterol and preventing heart attacks in high-risk patients.
