LDL cholesterol calculator
Friedewald estimates are shown only for fasting samples (at least 10 hours) with triglycerides below 400 mg/dL.
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4 fields are required.
Select sampling conditions.
Estimated LDL cholesterol
Accuracy may be reduced when TG is 150 mg/dL or above, or estimated LDL-C is below 70 mg/dL.
This is a Friedewald estimate, not a direct LDL-C measurement.
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Formula, scope and sources
Friedewald formula
LDL-C (mg/dL) = total cholesterol − HDL-C − TG ÷ 5. TG/5 approximates the cholesterol carried in VLDL. Enter all values in mg/dL. The reference mmol/L value divides estimated LDL-C by 38.67. No other estimation formula is combined with this method.
Worked example
For a fasting sample with total cholesterol 200, HDL-C 50 and TG 150 mg/dL: 200 − 50 − 150/5 = 120 mg/dL (approximately 3.10 mmol/L).
Scope and limitations
For fasting samples (at least 10 hours) with TG below 400 mg/dL. No estimate is displayed for nonfasting or unknown samples, TG of 400 mg/dL or above, inconsistent inputs or a negative estimate. Accuracy can decrease with high TG or low LDL-C, and this method may be inappropriate with increased chylomicrons or type III hyperlipidaemia. Consider direct measurement or professional review of laboratory values when appropriate. This tool does not diagnose a condition or determine medication changes.
Method and sources
Friedewald et al., Clinical Chemistry 1972;18:499–502 (TG/5, mg/dL). Original reference check: 2026-11-10.