Is Anacetrapib Better Than Its CETP Inhibitor Counterparts?

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.