In this report
Overview
When do you need treatment?
Statin comparison
Our Best Buy statins
What your readings mean
How low should you go?
How safe are statins?

TREATMENTS RATED
Find out which therapies work best for high cholesterol.

COST-EFFECTIVE DRUGS
Learn more from our Best Buy Drugs report.

March 2009
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How low should you go?

This table shows your target LDL level based on common risk factors for heart disease, such as smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, or a sedentary lifestyle.

If Your Risk Is ... Your LDL Should Be ...
Low
No current heart disease and no risk factors or only one risk factor
  • Below 160mg/dl
  • Below 130mg/dl is better
Moderate
Two risk factors but no current confirmed heart disease
  • Below 130mg/dl
  • Below 100mg/dl is better
Moderately High
More than two risk factors but no current confirmed heart disease
  • Below 130mg/dl
  • Below 100mg/dl is better
High
Known heart or blood vessel disease; diabetes; and multiple risk factors
  • Below 100mg/dl
  • Below 70mg/dl is better
Adapted from the National Cholesterol Education Program
 
  • Test labs
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