The decision to start cholesterol-lowering treatment is made on a case-by-case basis. Health care providers consider your current lipid levels, your risk of developing a cardiac event, the presence or absence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and other risk factors.

People with CVD: Studies have shown that in people with coronary heart disease, taking medications to significantly lower the level of “bad” cholesterol, called low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, is beneficial.

People with high triglyceride levels: Triglycerides, like cholesterol, are a type of lipid. High triglycerides (called “hypertriglyceridemia”) are also associated with an increased risk of heart disease. These should be tested in a fasting blood test because eating any food before the test will increase levels.

You can help lower your lipid levels with lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of both. In certain cases, a health care provider will recommend a trial of lifestyle changes before recommending a medication. The best approach for you will depend on your individual situation, including your lipid levels, health conditions, risk factors, medications, and lifestyle.