Lipid-lowering medications

Statin intensity

IntensityExpected LDL-C reductionExamples
High≥ 50%Atorvastatin 40–80 mg; rosuvastatin 20–40 mg
Moderate30–49%Atorvastatin 10–20 mg; rosuvastatin 5–10 mg; simvastatin 20–40 mg
Low< 30%Simvastatin 10 mg; pravastatin 10–20 mg

Check CK only if muscle symptoms or another clinical indication, not routinely.

Statins, fibrates & PCSK9 inhibitors

ClassGenericBrandCommon doseRenal adjust
StatinAtorvastatinLipitor10–80 mg dailyNo
StatinSimvastatinZocor10–40 mg at nightYes: caution if eGFR < 30
StatinRosuvastatinCrestor10–40 mg dailyYes: start at 5 mg if eGFR < 30
FibrateFenofibrateLipanthyl145–160 mg OD (100 mg also available)Yes: reduce/avoid if eGFR < 30; caution combined with statin
Cholesterol absorption inhibitorEzetimibeEzetrol10 mg dailyNo
PCSK9 inhibitorEvolocumabRepatha140 mg SC every 2 weeks or 420 mg SC once monthlyNo
PCSK9 inhibitorAlirocumabPraluent75–150 mg SC every 2 weeks (or 300 mg every 4 weeks)No
CombinationAtorvastatin + ezetimibeAtozete.g., 40/10 mg dailyNo

Educational reference for clinicians. Doses are typical adult starting points. Cross-check allergies, interactions, current local policy, the formulary, and renal/hepatic function before prescribing.

Last updated · August 2026