🫀 LDL Cholesterol (Friedewald)
Calculate LDL cholesterol from a lipid panel with the Friedewald equation.
LDL Cholesterol (Friedewald)
Total cholesterol (mg/dL)
HDL cholesterol (mg/dL)
Triglycerides (mg/dL)
When to use
Estimate LDL when a direct measurement is unavailable.
How it works
LDL = TC − HDL − TG/5 (mg/dL); invalid at triglycerides ≥ 400 mg/dL.
Key points
- Underestimates LDL at low LDL or high triglycerides.
- Use direct LDL or Martin-Hopkins when more accuracy is needed.
- Requires a fasting sample for best accuracy.
References
Decision support for licensed clinicians only; not a substitute for clinical judgement, diagnosis or local protocols.