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Cholestrol Test

Cholestrol Test

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  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Measures total cholesterol from a single fingertip blood drop
  • ✔️ Results available within minutes at home
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults monitoring cardiovascular health
  • ✔️ Identifies elevated cholesterol levels above 5 mmol/L
  • ✔️ Single-use sterile lancet included for safe, hygienic testing

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What Is a Cholesterol Home Test Kit?

 

Keeping an eye on your cholesterol is one of the simplest things you can do for your long-term heart health. High cholesterol rarely causes symptoms on its own, which is exactly why so many people in the UK are living with it without knowing. The cholesterol home test kit from Newfoundland gives you a quick, straightforward way to check your total cholesterol level from the comfort of your own home — no GP appointment needed, no waiting room, no fuss. At just £12.99, it's an accessible first step towards understanding your cardiovascular health. If you're also monitoring other health markers, you might find our Electrical Health and Diagnostic range useful alongside this test.

According to the NHS, high cholesterol affects around 6 in 10 adults in England. Total cholesterol levels above 5 mmol/L are considered elevated for most adults, and sustained high levels increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Catching a problem early — before it becomes a clinical emergency — is always the better outcome.

 

How Does the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test Work?

 

The test uses a well-established enzymatic reaction to detect cholesterol in a small capillary blood sample taken from your fingertip. Here's what happens at each stage:

  • A lancet is used to obtain a small drop of blood from the fingertip.
  • The blood is applied to the test strip, which is coated with a cholesterol oxidase enzyme reagent.
  • The enzyme reacts with cholesterol in the blood, producing a measurable colour change or reading.
  • The result is read within the timeframe specified in the instructions, giving you your total cholesterol level in mmol/L.

It's a rapid, single-use test. Results are typically available within a few minutes. The process is designed to be simple enough for home use, though it's important to follow the included instructions carefully to ensure accuracy.

 

Who Should Use This Cholesterol Test Kit?

 

This test is suitable for adults aged 18 and over who want a convenient way to monitor their cholesterol levels between GP visits. It's particularly useful if you:

  • Have a family history of high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease.
  • Are overweight or have a diet high in saturated fat.
  • Have not had a cholesterol check in the past five years.
  • Are managing conditions such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension, where cholesterol monitoring is especially relevant.

It is not intended to replace a full lipid profile blood test carried out by a healthcare professional. If your result is elevated, or if you have any existing heart conditions, please speak to your GP promptly.

 

How Does This Test Compare to a GP Cholesterol Blood Test?

 

Feature Newfoundland Cholesterol Test Kit GP Laboratory Blood Test
Sample type Fingertip capillary blood Venous blood (arm)
Results time Minutes at home Days (lab processing)
Measures Total cholesterol Full lipid profile (LDL, HDL, triglycerides)
Cost £12.99 Free on NHS (referral required)

 

Is the Cholesterol Home Test Kit Suitable for Everyone?

 

This cholesterol home test kit is designed for adult self-testing and is not recommended for use in children. It should not be used as a sole diagnostic tool if you are already on cholesterol-lowering medication such as statins — in that case, your GP will monitor your levels through regular blood tests. People with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulants should take extra care when using the lancet and may wish to consult their pharmacist first. If you're also looking to support your health through nutrition, our Vitamins and Supplements collection includes products that may complement a heart-healthy lifestyle.

Store the kit below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

This product is a medical test kit. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Newfoundland Cholesterol Test specifications
Treatment category Cardiovascular health monitoring
Mechanism of action Enzymatic cholesterol oxidase reaction on test strip
Effective for Measuring total cholesterol from capillary blood
Suitable for Adults aged 18 and over
Active ingredient Cholesterol oxidase enzyme reagent
Pack size Single test kit
UK classification General Sale / Medical Device
Preparation Test strip with lancet and collection materials
Route of administration Fingertip capillary blood sample

Specifications of Newfoundland Cholesterol Test

 

What Is the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test and What Is It Used For?

 

The Newfoundland Cholesterol Test is a rapid, single-use home diagnostic kit designed to measure your total cholesterol level from a small fingertip blood sample. It is used by adults who want to monitor their cardiovascular health conveniently, without needing to visit a clinic or GP surgery. The test provides a total cholesterol reading in mmol/L, helping you understand whether your levels fall within a healthy range.

The NHS defines a healthy total cholesterol level as 5 mmol/L or below for most adults. Levels above this threshold may indicate an increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. This test is intended as a screening tool — not a replacement for a full clinical lipid profile, which also measures LDL (low-density lipoprotein), HDL (high-density lipoprotein), and triglycerides.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test?

 

Before using this test, please read the following carefully. There are certain situations where you should seek professional advice first.

Do not use this test if:

  • You are under 18 years of age.
  • The packaging is damaged or the expiry date has passed.
  • You have a known bleeding disorder such as haemophilia.
  • You are unable to interpret the results without clinical support.

Use with caution and speak to your pharmacist if:

  • You are taking anticoagulant medicines such as warfarin or apixaban — fingerprick testing may carry a slightly higher bleeding risk.
  • You are already prescribed a statin or other lipid-lowering therapy — your GP should be monitoring your cholesterol through laboratory tests.
  • You have diabetes — cholesterol monitoring is important in this group, and results should be discussed with your care team. You may also find our Diabetes Monitoring range helpful for managing your overall health.

Known interactions:

  • No drug interactions apply to this test kit directly, as it is a diagnostic device rather than a medicine.
  • Certain medications (e.g. corticosteroids, some diuretics) can affect cholesterol levels, so results should be interpreted in the context of your current medicines.

 

How Should You Use the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test?

 

Always read the manufacturer's instructions included in the pack before starting. The general process is as follows:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, then dry them completely.
  2. Allow your hand to hang down briefly to encourage blood flow to the fingertip.
  3. Use the lancet provided to prick the side of your fingertip with a quick, firm motion.
  4. Gently squeeze the finger to produce a small, rounded drop of blood.
  5. Apply the blood drop directly to the designated area on the test strip — do not smear.
  6. Wait for the time period specified in the instructions before reading your result.
  7. Record your result and compare it to the reference ranges provided in the leaflet.
  8. Dispose of the lancet safely in a sharps container or as directed by your local council.
Indication Age Group Test Frequency Notes
Routine monitoring Adults 18+ Every 1–5 years As recommended by NHS guidelines
Elevated risk (family history, obesity) Adults 18+ More frequently, as advised by GP Follow up with full lipid profile
Post-lifestyle change monitoring Adults 18+ After 3–6 months of dietary change Discuss results with GP

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test?

 

As a diagnostic test kit rather than a medicine, the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test does not cause systemic side effects. However, the fingerprick element of the test may cause minor localised reactions.

Common side effects (related to lancet use):

  • Brief, mild pain or stinging at the puncture site.
  • A small amount of bleeding beyond the drop needed for the test.
  • Minor bruising around the fingertip.

Less common side effects:

  • Localised redness or swelling at the puncture site — usually resolves within a few hours.
  • Lightheadedness in individuals who are sensitive to blood or needles — sit down before testing if this applies to you.
  • Infection at the puncture site if the area is not kept clean — always use a sterile lancet and clean the fingertip with an alcohol wipe if provided.

 

How Should You Store the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test?

 

  • Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Do not refrigerate or freeze the test kit.
  • Keep the test strips in their sealed foil pouch until immediately before use.
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children.
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the outer packaging.
  • Dispose of used lancets and test strips in accordance with your local council's guidance on clinical waste.

If you have any concerns about your result or your cardiovascular health more broadly, please speak to your GP or pharmacist. You can also explore our Electrical Health and Diagnostic collection for other home monitoring tools that support your wellbeing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy a cholesterol home test kit online in the UK?

You can buy the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test Kit directly from Cured Pharmacy for £12.99, with no prescription required. It is dispatched quickly and discreetly to your home address. Simply add it to your basket and complete your order online in a few minutes.

How does the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test work in the body?

The test uses a cholesterol oxidase enzyme reagent on a test strip that reacts with cholesterol present in your blood sample. When a drop of blood from your fingertip is applied, the enzyme breaks down the cholesterol and triggers a measurable colour change or reading. This gives you a total cholesterol value in mmol/L within minutes.

How do I use the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test step by step?

Wash and dry your hands thoroughly, then use the lancet to prick the side of your fingertip. Apply the resulting blood drop to the test strip and wait the specified time before reading your result. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions included in the pack for the most accurate outcome.

What is a normal cholesterol level in the UK?

The NHS states that a healthy total cholesterol level for most adults is 5 mmol/L or below. Levels above this are considered elevated and may increase your risk of heart disease or stroke. If your result is above 5 mmol/L, it is important to speak to your GP for a full lipid profile blood test.

Who is eligible to use a home cholesterol test kit?

This test is suitable for adults aged 18 and over who want to check their total cholesterol level at home. It is particularly useful for those with a family history of high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, or those who have not had a cholesterol check in several years. It is not recommended for children or as a replacement for clinical testing in high-risk individuals.

Are home cholesterol tests accurate enough to rely on?

Home cholesterol test kits provide a useful indication of your total cholesterol level, but they are not as precise as a laboratory venous blood test, which also measures LDL, HDL, and triglycerides separately. They are best used as a screening tool to identify whether further investigation is needed. Always follow up with your GP if your result is elevated or you have concerns.

What should I do if my cholesterol test result is high?

If your total cholesterol reading is above 5 mmol/L, contact your GP to arrange a formal blood test and clinical assessment. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes such as improving your diet, increasing physical activity, and stopping smoking. In some cases, medication such as statins may be prescribed to bring your levels down.

How often should I check my cholesterol at home?

The NHS recommends that most adults have their cholesterol checked at least every five years as part of routine health monitoring. If you have risk factors such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, obesity, or a family history of heart disease, more frequent monitoring may be appropriate. Speak to your GP about the right frequency for your individual circumstances.

Can I use this test if I am already taking statins?

If you are already prescribed a statin such as atorvastatin or simvastatin, your GP will typically monitor your cholesterol through regular laboratory blood tests. You can still use a home test kit to track your levels between appointments, but you should not use the result to adjust or stop your medication without medical advice. Always discuss any changes in your readings with your prescriber.

Does fasting affect the result of a home cholesterol test?

For a total cholesterol reading, fasting is generally not required, as total cholesterol levels are not significantly affected by recent food intake. However, if you are having a full lipid profile done at a clinic, fasting for 9–12 hours beforehand is usually recommended to get accurate triglyceride readings. Follow the instructions in your test kit for specific guidance.

What are the alternatives to a home cholesterol test kit?

Alternatives include a full lipid profile blood test at your GP surgery, a NHS Health Check (available to adults aged 40–74 in England), or a cholesterol test at a community pharmacy. These options provide more detailed results including LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels. A home test kit like this one is a convenient first step, but a clinical test gives a fuller picture. You can also explore our Electrical Health and Diagnostic range for other monitoring tools.

Can high cholesterol cause symptoms I should watch out for?

High cholesterol itself does not usually cause any noticeable symptoms, which is why it is often called a "silent" condition. In some cases, very high cholesterol over many years can lead to xanthomas (fatty deposits under the skin) or xanthelasmas (yellowish patches around the eyes). The only reliable way to know your cholesterol level is to test it.

What lifestyle changes can help lower my cholesterol?

The NHS recommends reducing saturated fat intake, eating more fibre-rich foods such as oats and pulses, increasing physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and stopping smoking. These changes can meaningfully reduce total cholesterol levels over time. If you are looking to support your health further, our Vitamins and Supplements collection includes products such as omega-3 and plant sterols that may support heart health alongside a balanced diet.

Is the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test safe to use at home?

Yes, the test is designed for safe home use by adults and includes a single-use sterile lancet to minimise infection risk. The lancet should be disposed of carefully after use — ideally in a sharps container or as directed by your local council. If you feel faint at the sight of blood, sit down before performing the test and have someone with you if possible.

What are the latest findings on home cholesterol testing?

Research supports the use of point-of-care cholesterol testing as a useful screening tool for identifying individuals at risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly in community and pharmacy settings. NICE guidance (CG181) highlights the importance of identifying and managing cardiovascular risk early. Home testing kits complement this by encouraging more people to engage with their cholesterol health proactively.

How Should You Use the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test?

Before you begin, read the manufacturer's instruction leaflet included in the pack from start to finish. Performing the test correctly is essential for getting a reliable result — rushing or skipping steps can affect accuracy.

Follow these steps carefully each time you use the test:

What Is the Correct Dose of the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test?

This is a single-use diagnostic test kit, not a medicine, so there is no "dose" in the traditional sense. Each kit contains one test, and only one blood sample should be applied per strip. Using more than one drop or re-applying blood to the same strip will invalidate the result.

The table below outlines recommended testing frequency based on individual circumstances:

When Is the Best Time to Use the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test?

For a total cholesterol reading, fasting is not strictly required, as total cholesterol is not significantly affected by recent food intake. However, testing in the morning before eating or drinking anything other than water may help you establish a consistent baseline if you plan to monitor your levels over time.

Avoid testing immediately after strenuous exercise, illness, or significant stress, as these factors can temporarily affect cholesterol readings. Choose a calm moment when you feel well and are not rushed.

How Long Can You Use the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test For?

Each kit contains a single test and is intended for one-time use only. Do not attempt to reuse the lancet or test strip. If you wish to monitor your cholesterol regularly, you will need to purchase a new kit for each test session.

The test strips have a printed expiry date on the outer packaging — never use a strip beyond this date, as the enzyme reagent may have degraded and results will be unreliable. Store unused kits correctly (below 30°C, away from moisture and direct sunlight) to preserve their integrity until the expiry date.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test?

Because this is a diagnostic test kit rather than a medicine, it does not cause systemic side effects. The only side effects associated with its use relate to the fingerprick lancet required to obtain the blood sample. These are minor and short-lived for the vast majority of people.

  • Brief, mild stinging or pain at the puncture site immediately after lancing.
  • A small amount of bleeding that continues briefly beyond the drop needed for the test.
  • Minor bruising around the fingertip, which typically resolves within 24 hours.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test?

Less commonly, some individuals may experience slightly more noticeable reactions at the puncture site or a general response to the testing process itself. These are still mild in most cases.

  • Localised redness or swelling at the lancet site — usually settles within a few hours.
  • Lightheadedness or feeling faint, particularly in individuals who are sensitive to blood or needles. If this applies to you, sit down before performing the test and have someone nearby.
  • Mild anxiety or distress associated with self-testing — this is normal and usually eases with practice.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test?

Serious side effects from a fingerprick cholesterol test are rare but not impossible. Infection at the puncture site is the most significant risk, particularly if the lancet area is not kept clean after testing. Signs of infection include increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge from the site in the days following the test.

People with bleeding disorders such as haemophilia, or those taking anticoagulant medicines such as warfarin, may experience prolonged bleeding from the lancet site. Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth or gauze until bleeding stops. If bleeding does not stop within 10 minutes, seek medical attention.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For minor side effects such as soreness or bruising, no specific treatment is needed — these will resolve on their own. Keep the puncture site clean and dry for a few hours after testing. If you notice signs of infection developing at the site, contact your GP or pharmacist promptly.

If you feel faint during or after the test, lie down with your legs raised until you feel better. Do not attempt to drive or operate machinery until you have fully recovered. For any unexpected or concerning reaction, seek advice from a healthcare professional without delay.

Can the Newfoundland Cholesterol Test Interact With Other Medicines?

As a diagnostic device, this test kit does not interact with medicines in the way that drugs do. However, it is worth knowing that certain medications can affect your cholesterol levels themselves, which may influence how you interpret your result. Corticosteroids, some diuretics, and certain antipsychotic medicines can raise cholesterol levels. Conversely, statins, fibrates, and ezetimibe are prescribed specifically to lower them.

If you are taking any of these medicines, discuss your home test result with your GP or pharmacist in the context of your full medication history. They can help you understand whether your reading reflects your true baseline or is influenced by your current treatment.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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