Merck known as MSD outside the US and Canada, announced that the company will not submit applications for regulatory approval for anacetrapib, Merck’s investigational cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor. The decision follows a thorough review of the clinical profile of anacetrapib, including discussions with external experts.

“We are deeply grateful to the researchers and patients who participated in the anacetrapib clinical development programme, and in particular the REVEAL outcomes study. Unfortunately, after comprehensive evaluation, we have concluded that the clinical profile for anacetrapib does not support regulatory filings,” said Roger M. Perlmutter, M.D., Ph.D., president, Merck Research Laboratories. “During the past half-century, Merck has made numerous, important contributions to the treatment of cardiovascular disease. Our work in cardiovascular research continues.”