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Why did I start taking Repatha?The answer isn't simply that my cholesterol was elevated—it was a heart scan that fundamentally changed how I thought about my cardiovascular risk.Last year I underwent a coronary CT angiography (CCTA) with contrast, a test that goes beyond a traditional calcium scan by allowing visualization of soft plaque, the type of plaque most likely to rupture and cause a heart attack. Although my overall plaque burden was low, the presence of early soft plaque convinced me to take a much closer look at the evidence.In this episode, I revisit clips from my original conversation with Dr. Kevin White about my CCTA results and explain why, after spending months reviewing the scientific literature and discussing the data with trusted colleagues, I ultimately decided to start Repatha (evolocumab), a PCSK9 inhibitor.I also share my experience after eight months on treatment, including:• My LDL cholesterol and ApoB before and after Repatha • Why imaging changed my perspective more than blood tests alone • Why lifestyle remains the foundation of cardiovascular health • Why I chose a PCSK9 inhibitor instead of other cholesterol-lowering therapies • What I'm hoping to learn from my follow-up CCTA later this year This is not a recommendation that everyone should take Repatha, nor is it medical advice. Rather, it's a case study in how new information can change even an informed scientist's thinking—and why being willing to update your beliefs based on better evidence is one of the most important principles in healthspan medicine.Coming up next on Longevity Science, I'll take a deep dive into enlicitide, the first oral PCSK9 inhibitor recently approved by the FDA. If you've been interested in lowering LDL and ApoB but aren't excited about injections like Repatha, you won't want to miss that discussion.If you've wondered whether advanced cardiovascular imaging is worth considering, or how to think about ApoB, LDL, soft plaque, and primary prevention, I hope you'll find this discussion helpful.Have questions or thoughts? Leave them in the comments below. I'd especially be interested in hearing from those who have undergone CCTA with contrast or are using PCSK9 inhibitors. Disclosure: I have no financial relationship with Amgen, Repatha, Clearly, or any company discussed in this episode. I purchased my own medication and am sharing my personal experience and interpretation of the scientific evidence. Always discuss medical decisions with your own healthcare provider.DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this channel is intended solely for general educational purposes and is not meant to be, nor should it be construed as, personalized medical advice. No doctor-patient relationship is established by your use of this channel. The information and materials presented are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We strongly advise that you consult with a licensed healthcare professional for all matters concerning your health, especially before undertaking any changes based on content provided by this channel. The hosts and guests on this channel are not liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages or adverse effects that may arise from the application of the information discussed. Medical knowledge is constantly evolving; therefore, the information provided should be verified against current medical standards and practices.More places to find me:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mkaeberlein/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkaeberlein/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mkaeberleinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.kaeberlein/
