Juxtapid: Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Juxtapid (lomitapide) is a medication used to treat familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that causes high levels of cholesterol in the blood. In this article, we will discuss the uses of Juxtapid, its dosage, demographic of patients who can benefit from this medication, its side effects, possible interactions with other drugs, and generic options. Uses of Juxtapid: Juxtapid is used to treat adults with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH). HoFH is a rare genetic condition that causes very high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or "bad" cholesterol in the blood. This condition results in the clogging of arteries, which can lead to heart attacks or other cardiovascular diseases. Juxtapid is intended to be used in addition to a low-fat diet and other lipid-lowering treatments. Dosage of Juxtapid: Juxtapid comes in capsules of various strengths, ranging from 5 to 60 mg. The dosage of Juxtapid is individualized based on the patient's age, weight, medical history, and response to treatment. Initial dosing starts at 5 mg once daily, with the maximum recommended dose of 60 mg daily. The capsules should be taken with food, as it increases absorption of the medication. Demographic: Juxtapid is intended for use in adults with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) who are already receiving maximum-tolerated doses of other lipid-lowering treatments such as statins and ezetimibe. The medication is not intended for use in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH), who have less severe high cholesterol levels. Side Effects of Juxtapid: Juxtapid can cause significant gastrointestinal side effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gastritis, and abdominal pain. These side effects can be managed by starting with a low dose and gradually increasing the dose over several weeks. Juxtapid can also cause liver toxicity and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider who can monitor liver function tests regularly. Other side effects may occur, which include: - Increased liver enzymes, indicating liver damage. - Hypersensitivity reactions, such as rash or hives. - Fatigue. - Weakness. - A headache. - Edema, or swelling. Interactions of Juxtapid: Some drugs may interact with Juxtapid, leading to an increased risk of side effects. Drugs that should not be used with Juxtapid include medications that affect the liver such as ketoconazole and cyclosporine. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice should also be avoided, as they can increase blood levels of Juxtapid and cause liver toxicity. Patients taking Juxtapid should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to prevent any adverse drug interactions. Generic Options: As of 2021, there are no generic options available for Juxtapid. The medication is still under patent protection by Aegerion Pharmaceuticals Inc. However, the patient assistance program is available, which assists patients with insurance coverage and paying copays. Conclusion: Juxtapid is a medication used for the treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic disorder that causes high levels of cholesterol in the blood, leading to clogged arteries and cardiovascular diseases. This medication should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider and should be taken with food to increase absorption. Although Juxtapid can cause significant gastrointestinal side effects, it is effective in lowering cholesterol levels in patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. Patients should be encouraged to inform their healthcare providers if they experience any side effects, or if they are taking any other medications to prevent drug interactions.