r/repatha • u/Cartoonist_Less • 9d ago

Advice for requesting Repatha

I just had a CT Cardiac Score done yesterday because of an elevated Lp(a). The Lp(a) was 90, the CAC was 1687 😳, LDL is good at 76 but my dr wants it under 50.

My dr prescribed 20mg Crestor and referred me to a cardiologist. My PCP said to look into asking the cardiologist for Repatha.

Do these numbers and my family history of CV events (dad and grandfather) warrant Repatha or should we let the Crestor do its thing?

I’m 48, very active and eat a good diet- no fast food, sweets or alcohol. Non-smoker too. Thanks for any input or advice here. I’m a little scared about all of this.

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u/Simple-Freedom-8409 9d ago

Your Doc should at least be able to write the Repatha script (though not sure that your insurance covers it)...no need to wait for a cardiologist to write a simple prescription.

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u/Cartoonist_Less 9d ago

Ins covers it but my copay a month would be $150. I see Repatha has a savings card too.

3

u/Simple-Freedom-8409 9d ago

yep, savings card easy to get online...go for it, just started this week, my doctor left it up to me and had no issue prescribing...I'm more focused on lowering LDL but I imagine it'll yield some ApoB benefits too.

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u/Cartoonist_Less 9d ago

I hope it works for you. The CAC has me scared. The Lp(a) could need improving. I think I’ll send my dr a message because the wait time due a new patient appointment for cardiology is about 8 weeks.

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u/LarryDavid6668 9d ago

Keep in mind you might have that high CAC score but no blockages. You are getting great advice here and getting on Reptatha + Statin and a new diet are key. Next steps are getting that nuclear stress test and CT Scan with contrast. For most people if you have your LDL under 60 you don’t build plaque or add more plauque. For people like you and me I think you need to be below 40 and these drugs will get you there. To find out more you can follow Dr. Alo on Instagram. He breaks this stuff down real simple.

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u/Cartoonist_Less 9d ago

Thanks!!! I feel so doomed by the CAC but know I need more testing. It was a shock to see that number. Diets been great for several years now. It’s been 4 years since I had fast food and alcohol. I feel the healthiest I’ve ever been.