Treatment Overview

The goal in treating high cholesterol is to reduce your chances of having a heart attack or stroke.

The two types of treatment for high cholesterol are:

1. Lifestyle changes.
2. Daily medicines.

Lifestyle changes

Your doctor may suggest that you make one or more of the following changes:

• Build good eating habits.
• Lose weight.
• Get more active.
• Stop smoking.

For more information, see Making Lifestyle Changes.

Medicines

Many people try lifestyle changes first. But if lifestyle changes aren't enough to reach your cholesterol goal, you will need to take medicine too. Even if you take medicine for high cholesterol, keeping healthy lifestyle habits is still important.

Some people need to start taking medicine right away because their risk of heart attack is higher than average. Your doctor will base your need for medicine on your risk level.

Interactive Tool: Are You at Risk for a Heart Attack?

Once you know your risk for heart attack, you can learn more about treatment for your risk level.

You may also need treatment for other health problems, such as high blood pressure.

For more information, see Medications.