Hypercholesterolaemia
Hypercholesterolaemia, also called high cholesterol, means having too much of certain types of cholesterol in the blood. Over time, this raises the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Key points
- High cholesterol typically causes no symptoms, so many people are unaware they have it.
- The two main types are LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol) and HDL (‘good’ cholesterol).
- Management generally involves lifestyle changes and, when needed, medicines.
Medicines listed for Hypercholesterolaemia
The listed products contain Rosuvastatin, Atorvastatin and fenofibrate, all in tablet form. Rosuvastatin and atorvastatin belong to the statin class, which works by slowing cholesterol production in the liver so that the liver draws more cholesterol from the blood, lowering LDL levels. Fenofibrate is a fibrate, a different class listed for mixed dyslipidaemia and high triglycerides.
Further reading
What is hypercholesterolaemia?
Hypercholesterolaemia, also called high cholesterol, means having too much of certain types of cholesterol in the blood. Over time, this raises the risk of heart attack and stroke.
What are the symptoms of high cholesterol?
High cholesterol typically causes no symptoms, so many people are unaware they have it.
How is hypercholesterolaemia treated?
Management generally involves lifestyle changes and, when needed, medicines.
What medication for hypercholesterolaemia can I buy online?
The medicines listed for hypercholesterolaemia include products containing rosuvastatin, atorvastatin and fenofibrate. Examples include Crestor and Lipitor.
Are medicines for hypercholesterolaemia available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order medicines for hypercholesterolaemia. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver medicines for hypercholesterolaemia to South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →

