Pemafibrate: First Global Approval

Abstract

Pemafibrate (Parmodia^®) is a novel, highly selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α modulator (SPPARM). It acts by binding to PPAR-α and regulating the expression of target genes that modulate lipid metabolism, thereby decreasing plasma triglyceride levels and increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Developed by Kowa Company, Ltd., oral pemafibrate has been approved in Japan for the treatment of hyperlipidaemia (including familial hyperlipidaemia). This article summarizes the milestones in the development of pemafibrate leading to this first global approval for hyperlipidaemia.