Question 1

What is a good HDL level?

Accepted Answer

For most adults, 40 mg/dL (1.0 mmol/L) or more for men and 50 mg/dL (1.3 mmol/L) or more for women is in the usual range, and around 60 mg/dL (1.5 mmol/L) is often considered good. Your clinician reads it alongside LDL, triglycerides and your other risk factors.

Question 2

Is low HDL dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Low HDL is a risk factor for heart disease, not a disease in itself. It matters most when other risks are present, such as high LDL, high blood pressure, diabetes or smoking. Your clinician uses it as part of your overall heart risk.

Question 3

Can HDL be too high?

Accepted Answer

Very high HDL, roughly above 80 to 100 mg/dL (2.0 to 2.5 mmol/L), does not seem to give extra protection and can sometimes come with other conditions. It is not usually a cause for concern on its own, but it is worth mentioning to your clinician.

Question 4

Is there a medicine to raise HDL?

Accepted Answer

Some medicines raise HDL, but trials have not shown that raising HDL with drugs prevents heart attacks. Treatment usually focuses on lowering LDL and your overall risk instead.