 Cholesterol is needed for HCV virion production. Cell culture studies have shown that atorvastatin an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor decreases HCV viral replication. As atorvastatin has been proven to decrease heart attack and stroke in patients with high cholesterol, this medication is indicated for the treatment of elevated cholesterol in at risk individuals. Therefore we propose to study the effect atorvastatin has on the viral load of patients initiated on atorvastatin therapy for their elevated cholesterol. 