[Optimal cholesterol levels in patients in real-life. A systematic review].

Dyslipidaemia is one of the main risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis. Different studies have demonstrated that the lower the LDL cholesterol, the better. Current evidence shows that the LDL cholesterol targets recommended by the clinical practice guidelines are beneficial and safe. However, consistent data show that higher reductions might provide additional cardiovascular beneficial effects, without an increase in side effects. Unfortunately, the current control of dyslipidaemia is very poor. Although statins are the treatment of choice in the majority of patients with dyslipidaemia, the current therapeutic armamentarium has different alternatives that effectively reduce LDL cholesterol levels, and that alone, or in combination, help to achieve LDL cholesterol targets in the majority of patients.