Healthcare in Japan · Medication guide
Inclisiran (Leqvio)
A long-acting injection to lower LDL cholesterol. Understand the treatment before discussing a plan with your doctor.
Treatment overviewSources checked: October 13, 2026
- Generic name
- Inclisiran / インクリシラン
- Brand in Japan
- Leqvio / レクビオ
- Medicine class
- PCSK9-targeting siRNA
Treatment overview
Inclisiran is a small interfering RNA (siRNA) medicine. It reduces production of PCSK9 in liver cells, helping the liver remove LDL cholesterol, often called “bad cholesterol”, from the blood. It is a cholesterol treatment, not a weight-loss medicine.
Reduces PCSK9 production
Helps the liver take up LDL
Lowers LDL cholesterol in the blood
How often is it given?
Initial dose
Treatment begins
3 months later
Second injection
Every 6 months after that
Ongoing treatment as prescribed
A healthcare professional gives the injection under the skin. Twice-yearly dosing refers to maintenance, not the initial schedule. Blood tests and medical reviews may be needed more often. Contact the treating clinic if you miss an appointment.
Who may be eligible in Japan?
Japanese eligibility includes familial hypercholesterolemia or hypercholesterolemia, a high risk of cardiovascular events, and an insufficient response to statins or unsuitability for statin treatment. A high cholesterol reading alone does not establish eligibility.
How does it differ from PCSK9 antibodies?
Inclisiran uses RNA interference to reduce PCSK9 production. Monoclonal antibodies such as evolocumab act on PCSK9 protein that has already been produced. Both address LDL cholesterol, but their mechanisms and dosing plans differ. Your doctor should assess any change using your treatment history and follow-up needs.
Side effects and precautions
Injection-site pain, redness or rash may occur. Contact your doctor about symptoms. Seek immediate medical care for signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or lips.
Tell your doctor about pregnancy, plans for pregnancy, breastfeeding, allergies and other medical conditions. Do not stop statins or other prescribed medicines on your own after starting injections.
How are costs confirmed in Japan?
Costs depend on the clinic, tests, treatment and insurance eligibility. Visitors should not assume Japanese public insurance coverage. Ask separately about consultations and tests, medication and administration, interpretation and coordination, as well as medicine availability and follow-up arrangements.
Frequently asked questions
Will I still need a statin?
Statins are usually continued unless statin treatment is unsuitable. Starting an injection is not a reason to stop prescribed tablets without your doctor’s advice.
Will I only need two visits a year?
Doses are given initially, at 3 months, then every 6 months. Tests and medical reviews may require additional visits. Confirm the full follow-up plan before travelling.
Can I receive the injection on the day I visit?
This depends on medical assessment, clinic availability and medicine supply. Same-day treatment cannot be guaranteed.
What can XIUYI help with?
We support communication about visits in Japan, appointment coordination and language assistance. The treating medical institution and doctor determine eligibility, prescribe and administer treatment.
Start with your results and a conversation
Tell us about your lipid results, current medicines and travel plans. We can help communicate your appointment needs and prepare the information for your visit.
Discuss a medical visit in Japan →