Module 9: Monitoring & Follow-Up
Lipid monitoring schedules, follow-up protocols, and response assessment.
Monitoring & Follow-Up
Generate a personalized monitoring schedule and goal assessment
mL/min
mg/dL
mg/dL
Current Therapies (for goal assessment)
Monitoring Schedule
Guideline-based monitoring recommendations (COR I, LOE B-NR)
| Test | Timing | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Lipid Monitoring | ||
| Fasting lipid panel | 4-12 weeks after initiation or dose change | Assess LDL-C response to therapy. Expect ≥30% reduction with moderate-intensity, ≥50% with high-intensity statin. |
| Fasting lipid panel | Every 6-12 months once stable | Monitor adherence and sustained LDL-C response. Annual minimum. |
| Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] | Once in adult lifetime (at initial lipid assessment) | Lp(a) is genetically determined and stable over a lifetime. ≥125 nmol/L is risk-enhancing. Measure at least once (COR 1, LOE B-NR). |
| Safety Labs | ||
| Hepatic function panel (ALT) | Baseline prior to statin initiation | Baseline hepatic function. Routine monitoring no longer required unless symptoms develop. |
| Follow-Up | ||
| Clinical follow-up visit | 4-12 weeks after initiation, then every 6-12 months | Assess adherence, tolerability, lifestyle modification progress, and treatment goals. |
This tool is intended for use by healthcare professionals and does not replace clinical judgment. Always refer to the full 2026 ACC/AHA Guideline on the Management of Dyslipidemia for complete recommendations.