Merck reported Phase 3 data showing its oral PCSK9 inhibitor produced LDL cholesterol reductions up to 60% in patients already on statins, fulfilling a long‑standing industry goal of an oral therapy rivaling injectable PCSK9 monoclonals. The late‑stage trial enrolled roughly 2,900 participants at heightened cardiovascular risk and met prespecified lipid‑lowering endpoints, the company said. Merck’s once‑daily candidate (Enlicitide) aims to replicate the substantial LDL cuts achieved by injectables in a convenient oral formulation. The topline results were presented at a major cardiology meeting and are being read as a potential market disruptor if safety and cardiovascular outcomes data follow. Regulators will need full datasets, including durability and tolerability, before approval discussions can proceed.