Dalcetrapib or JTT-705 is a CETP inhibitor which was being developed by Hoffmann–La Roche until May 2012. The drug was aimed at raising the blood levels of “good cholesterol” (cholesterol carried in HDL particles, aka HDL-C). Prevailing observations indicate that high HDL levels correlate with better overall cardiovascular health, though it remains unclear whether raising HDL levels consequently leads to an increase in cardiovascular health.

A 24 week clinical trial showed that dalcetrapib did increase HDL-C levels, supporting the agent’s desired effect. Further, the dal-PLAQUE phase IIb trial found evidence of plaque reduction. Plaque reduction is an anticipated observation following an increase in HDL.

As of 2010 five phase II trials had started and there was no evidence of the raised blood pressure seen with torcetrapib.

dal-VESSEL phase IIb trial found no evidence of flow-mediated dilatation improvement. A 17% increase of Lp-PLA₂ mass level was noted. Lp-PLA₂ is associated with coronary heart disease and stroke.^[1][2]

dal-OUTCOMES phase III trial passed its first interim review in July, 2011, however, development was halted on May 7, 2012 “due to a lack of clinically meaningful efficacy”. The results of dal-OUTCOMES III were published in November, 2012.^[3]

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