How should I monitor lipid levels in patients on statin therapy, and what are the targets for treatment?

Monitor lipid levels by measuring a non-fasting full lipid profile 2–3 months after starting or changing lipid-lowering treatment ¹,².

If the lipid target is met, continue treatment if the shared decision is to do so; do not routinely de-escalate treatment unless clinically indicated or based on patient needs or preferences ¹,².

If the lipid target is not met, consider treatment optimization or escalation after an informed discussion with the patient about risks and benefits ¹,².

The treatment targets for secondary prevention of CVD are LDL cholesterol levels of 2.0 mmol/L or less, or non-HDL cholesterol levels of 2.6 mmol/L or less ¹,².

Further monitoring of liver transaminases should be done 2–3 months after starting or changing treatment, and again at 12 months, unless clinically indicated ¹,².