Present LDL-C is 151-175
| Drug Name | Tablet Strength | Cost Per Day |
| Lescol XL | 80mg | $1.87 |
| Crestor | 10mg | $2.35 |
| Lipitor | 20mg | $2.81 |
| Pravachol | 40mg | $3.56 |
| Zocor | 20mg | $3.57 |
| Zocor | 40mg | $3.61 |
Present LDL-C is 176-200
| Drug Name | Tablet Strength | Cost Per Day |
| Crestor | 20mg | $2.35 |
| Lipitor | 40mg | $3.13 |
| Zocor | 80mg | $3.64 |
Present LDL-C is 201-250
| Drug Name | Tablet Strength | Cost Per Day |
| Crestor | 40mg | $2.35 |
| Lipitor | 80mg | $3.13 |
| Zocor | 80mg | $3.64 |
As you can see from the charts, the costs of lowering your cholesterol can vary a great deal. For example, if your LDL cholesterol is between 100 and 125mg/dL and you are high risk, the cost for drug therapy can range from $1.26 to $2.35 per day to bring it down to goal. If you are at high risk and your LDL cholesterol is 176-250mg/dL, the daily cost is $3.13 to $3.64. For some people, Lescol (if your LDL cholesterol is under the 150-175mg/dL range) is a "best buy". Crestor seems to be the "best buy" for people with moderate to high levels of LDL cholesterol.
If you have high cholesterol, it's important to do what you can to lower it. But remember that the most expensive answer may not be the only answer.
Source: from the Harvard Health Publications Family Health Guide, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved.
