What are the reasons for measuring LDL levels in patients despite taking statins?
The reasons for measuring LDL levels in patients despite taking statins may include: providing objective data and facilitating shared decision making, identifying medication non-adherence, helping the provider motivate the patient to follow the treatment regimen, and tailoring therapy for patients who are at high risk despite taking statins. Adherence can also be indirectly assessed (e.g., patient report and medication refill frequency). Additionally, measuring LDL levels may be useful in patients under age 40, for whom these guidelines do not make recommendations given the lack of evidence.