Leqvio treats high cholesterol by interfering with the production of a protein called PCSK9 which is responsible for breaking down receptors on liver cells that remove cholesterol from the blood. This allows more receptors to be present, increasing the uptake of LDL cholesterol by liver cells and its removal from the blood.

Leqvio limits the production of the PCSK9 protein by interfering with the translation of PCSK9 messenger RNA (mRNA). It belongs to the class of medicines known as small interfering ribonucleic acids (siRNAs).

Leqvio is administered by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection every 6 months and is used in combination with a daily oral statin (such as atorvastatin or rosuvastatin) together with a healthy diet.