LDL Cholesterol Calculator (Friedewald Formula)
Enter your lipid panel results and the unit.
Your numbers
Your results
LDL Cholesterol Calculator (Friedewald Formula) by TheCalcTools
How the LDL Cholesterol Calculator (Friedewald Formula) works
The Friedewald equation estimates LDL as total cholesterol − HDL − triglycerides ÷ 5 (in mg/dL; ÷ 2.2 in mmol/L), because VLDL carries cholesterol of about a fifth of triglycerides.
It is not valid when triglycerides are 400 mg/dL (4.5 mmol/L) or more, and it underestimates LDL at low values; many labs now use the Martin–Hopkins or Sampson methods or measure LDL directly.
The formula
Worked example
Using the default values shown in the calculator:
| Units | mg/dL |
|---|---|
| Total cholesterol | 210 |
| HDL cholesterol | 50 |
| Triglycerides | 150 |
- 210 − 50 − 150 ÷ 5 = 130.0 mg/dL LDL.
- Non-HDL cholesterol 160.0 mg/dL.
Result:
| Estimated LDL | 130.0 |
|---|---|
| Non-HDL cholesterol | 160.0 |
| Total / HDL ratio | 4.20 |
| Validity | Valid range for the Friedewald estimate |
| LDL in the other unit | 3.36 |
Frequently asked questions
What LDL is considered high?
Targets depend on your overall cardiovascular risk; ask your clinician. Very high LDL (190 mg/dL or more) usually needs treatment.
Sources and further reading
- Friedewald WT, Levy RI, Fredrickson DS (1972). Clin Chem 18:499-502
- Wikipedia: Low-density lipoprotein
Related calculators
More in Health & Fitness · All calculators
This calculator gives general estimates for information and education. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose anything. Talk to a qualified health professional about your own situation. See our disclaimer.