New cholesterol drug misses the mark

"Results from a new study have dashed hopes for the further development of a newer class of cholesterol-lowering drugs to prevent cardiovascular disease. Researchers say that the drug pactimibe did not slow down the development of clogged arteries (atherosclerosis) in those with familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol levels. But the drug did increase their risk of heart attack and stroke and may even promote the formation of plaque buildup. The study is published in this week's edition of The Journal of the American Medical Association." - webMD