Frequently Asked Questions

No. Most patients feel only a brief pinch when the IV is placed. The rest of the session is comfortable and uneventful.

Sessions typically take 2–4 hours, depending on your blood volume and cholesterol levels.

Most patients come in every 1–2 weeks. Your schedule is determined by your cholesterol levels and treatment response.

Yes. Cholesterol levels drop by 65–85% immediately after each session. Because levels gradually rise again between treatments, ongoing therapy is needed to maintain the benefit.

No. Apheresis is a maintenance therapy — it controls cholesterol but does not treat the underlying genetic condition. You will continue treatment indefinitely, similar to dialysis.

Yes. Apheresis is used alongside medications, not instead of them. We'll work with your prescribing physician to optimize your regimen.

Apheresis is often covered for patients who meet clinical criteria. We assist with insurance verification and prior authorization at no extra charge.

A referral from your cardiologist or PCP is helpful but not always required. You're also welcome to contact us directly for an evaluation.

Recent lab results (including lipid panel and Lp(a) if available), a list of your current medications, and your insurance card.

Side effects are generally mild: occasional fatigue, lightheadedness, or bruising at the IV site. Serious complications are rare. We monitor every patient throughout each session.

Yes, this is important. Patients taking ACE inhibitors (such as lisinopril, enalapril, or ramipril) must stop them or switch to an alternative medication before starting apheresis, as the combination can cause a severe drop in blood pressure. Please discuss this with your prescribing physician before your first session.