Written and medically reviewed by Dorcas Morak, Pharm.D
Every September, National Cholesterol Education Month raises awareness about managing cholesterol—a major factor in preventing heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. From knowing your numbers to exploring cost-saving tools, this month emphasizes education, action, and access.
Why Does Cholesterol Matter?
High cholesterol usually has no symptoms but significantly increases your risk of heart attack and stroke. It contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries (atherosclerosis), reducing blood flow and increasing cardiovascular risk.
Why Is Awareness Important?
- Over 102 million adults in the U.S. have cholesterol levels at or above 200 mg/dL.
- More than 35 million are considered high-risk, with levels above 240 mg/dL. Cholesterol is manageable—with the right treatment plan and support tools like the RxLess® Assurance Plan.
What Medications Help Lower Cholesterol?
The most commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications are statins, which reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular events. Examples include:
- Atorvastatin (Lipitor)
- Simvastatin (Zocor)
- Rosuvastatin (Crestor)
- Pravastatin (Pravachol)
- Lovastatin (Mevacor)
Additional options include:
- Ezetimibe (Zetia), or combination therapy such as Ezetimibe/Simvastatin (Vytorin)
- PCSK9 inhibitors: Evolocumab (Repatha), Alirocumab (Praluent)
- Bile acid sequestrants: Cholestyramine (Questran), Colesevelam (Welchol)
- Bempedoic acid: Nexletol (for patients who can’t tolerate statins)
Talk to your healthcare provider about which medication is right for you based on your risk factors and health goals.
Can Lifestyle Changes Help?
Absolutely. Medication is just one part of cholesterol management. These lifestyle steps are also essential:
- Eat heart-healthy: Focus on fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and healthy fats. Avoid foods high in saturated and trans fats.
- Stay active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Even losing 5–10% of your weight can improve cholesterol levels.
How Can the RxLess® Assurance Plan Help?
Managing cholesterol is a lifelong journey—and the cost of daily medications can add up quickly. The RxLess® Assurance Plan helps you save by showing real-time prescription prices from over 70,000 pharmacies across the U.S., so you always get the best price—no insurance or membership required.
By downloading the free RxLess® app, you can:
- Get free digital prescription savings cards/coupons
- Compare pharmacy prices instantly near you
- Save on common cholesterol medications like:
When Should You Get Your Cholesterol Checked?
A simple lipid panel blood test can measure total cholesterol, LDL, HDL (“good” cholesterol), and triglycerides. According to the National Cholesterol Education Program:
- Adults 20 years and older should be tested at least once every 5 years
- More frequent testing is recommended if you have:
- A family history of heart disease
- Obesity or diabetes
- High blood pressure
- A smoking habit
What Should You Do If Your Cholesterol Is High?
Don’t panic—high cholesterol is manageable. Your provider may recommend:
- Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise)
- Medications
- Regular monitoring
And don’t forget the financial side: use the RxLess® Assurance Plan to ensure you can afford your medications for the long haul.
Final Tip
This September, take charge of your heart health. Get tested. Talk to your provider. Take steps—and save on every prescription with RxLess® Assurance Plan.
