Zerlasiran

Indicated For

Elevated Lipoprotein(a), Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD)

About This Medication

# Zerlasiran Patient Guide: How to Get Zerlasiran at Low or No Cost **Important Notice: Zerlasiran (SLN360) is an investigational therapy still in clinical development and not yet FDA-approved as of March 2026.** No commercial patient assistance program exists from Silence Therapeutics, the manufacturer. This guide provides general information on potential access pathways for patients with elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] at high risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), based on available data from Silence Therapeutics' pipeline and trials. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. ## About Zerlasiran Zerlasiran is a precision-engineered short interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy designed to 'silence' the LPA gene, which produces lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], a protein linked to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and ASCVD. By blocking LPA gene expression, zerlasiran significantly lowers Lp(a) levels—Phase 2 ALPACAR-360 trial data showed over 80% time-averaged placebo-adjusted reductions over 36 weeks, with maximum reductions exceeding 90%, persisting up to 60 weeks post-first dose with infrequent subcutaneous dosing (e.g., 300 mg every 16-24 weeks or 450 mg every 24 weeks).[3][4][6] No new safety concerns were reported in trials involving patients with Lp(a) ≥125 nmol/L.[1][5] Phase 3 trials are delayed pending a partner, with core activities targeting readiness by mid-2025.[9] Silence Therapeutics emphasizes patient support and collaboration with advocates.[2] ## Who Qualifies for Access? Since zerlasiran is investigational, access is limited to clinical trials or potential expanded access programs, not standard prescription assistance. Silence Therapeutics is conducting Phase 2 studies like ALPACAR-360 (completed enrollment, topline data reported) for patients with high Lp(a) (≥125 nmol/L) at high ASCVD risk.[1][5][7] Eligibility typically requires: - Confirmed elevated Lp(a) levels. - High cardiovascular risk (e.g., prior events or risk factors). - Ability to attend trial sites. No income-based patient assistance program is available, as the drug lacks a commercial program name, income thresholds, or application process.[provided data] Check clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04606602 and others) for open trials or expanded access for individual patients with serious conditions unable to join trials.[7] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown No specific income thresholds apply, as no commercial PAP exists. For context, US pharmaceutical PAPs often use Federal Poverty Level (FPL) guidelines (e.g., 400-500% FPL). Silence Therapeutics has not published details. | Household Size | Typical PAP Threshold (e.g., 400% FPL, 2026 est.) | Zerlasiran Status | |----------------|---------------------------------------------------|-------------------| | Individual | ~$60,000 | Not applicable | | Couple | ~$81,000 | Not applicable | | Family of 3 | ~$102,000 | Not applicable | | Family of 4 | ~$123,000 | Not applicable | *Notes: FPL estimates based on general US guidelines; zerlasiran has no defined program.*[general knowledge] ## Insurance Requirements Zerlasiran is not covered by insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid, as it is not approved. Trial participation is typically free, covering drug, monitoring, and visits. Medicare Part D or commercial plans do not reimburse investigational therapies outside trials. Expanded access might involve compassionate use requests, but manufacturer support is unclear.[7] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Consult Your Doctor:** Discuss Lp(a) testing and ASCVD risk. Get referral to Silence Therapeutics trials. 2. **Search Clinical Trials:** Visit clinicaltrials.gov and search 'zerlasiran' or 'SLN360' (e.g., NCT04606602). Check Silence's patient page for studies.[1][3] 3. **Contact Manufacturer:** Reach Silence Therapeutics via their website (silence-therapeutics.com) or patient support inquiries for trial info or expanded access.[2] 4. **Submit Screening:** Provide medical history, Lp(a) labs, and consent for trial eligibility. 5. **Enroll if Qualified:** No cost for trial drug; travel/support may vary. No standard PAP application phone, URL, or documents listed.[provided data] ## Timeline and Delivery Trial screening: 2-4 weeks. Treatment: Subcutaneous injections every 16-24 weeks, administered at sites. Phase 2 data showed effects from first dose, persisting 60 weeks.[4] No commercial processing time or delivery method exists. Topline Phase 2 data was rapid (36 weeks reported 2024).[6] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Other Trials:** Search for Lp(a)-lowering studies on clinicaltrials.gov. - **Approved Therapies:** Statins, PCSK9 inhibitors (e.g., Repatha, Leqvio) for ASCVD risk, though less effective on Lp(a). No direct Lp(a) therapies approved yet. - **Lifestyle:** Diet, exercise to manage risk factors. - **Biosimilars:** None available.[provided data] - **Other Manufacturers:** Monitor for competitors in Lp(a) space. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Zerlasiran access depends on trial availability, which changes. Data current as of March 2026; Phase 3 delayed.[9] Consult healthcare professionals. Silence Therapeutics does not guarantee access. No liability for decisions based on this guide. Word count: 942.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026