Cholesterol levels are tightly linked to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition that can lead to coronary heart disease and an increased risk of stroke. Cholesterol comes in different forms, known as lipoproteins; one kind of lipoprotein, known as high-density lipoprotein or HDL, is able to remove excess cholesterol from the blood and prevent atherosclerosis. One way of raising HDL levels is through the use of niacin supplements.
HDL Levels and Heart Disease
HDL levels are often factored in when determining a person's risk of developing heart disease, the American Heart Association explains. Low HDL levels are anything below 40 mg/dl of blood for men and 50 mg/dl of blood for women, and they put people at an increased risk of developing coronary artery disease. On the other hand, high HDL cholesterol concentrations, defined as levels above 60 mg/dL of blood, are considered to be a protective factor for people concerned about coronary artery disease.
Niacin Effects on HDL
Niacin, which is also known as nicotinic acid, is the most effective medication for boosting HDL levels, MayoClinic.com explains. When used regularly, niacin can help boost HDL levels between 15 percent and 35 percent. In addition to its effects on HDL, niacin also can lower LDL and triglyceride levels, which further helps reduce the risk of coronary artery disease.
Forms
Niacin supplements can be obtained both over the counter and with a prescription. In theory, the over-the-counter versions are as effective as the prescription formulations, according to MayoClinic.com. On the other hand, over-the-counter medications are not regulated as strictly as prescription drugs. This means that the over-the-counter niacin supplements might not be as effective or might vary in the amount of niacin contained in each pill.
Side Effects
Niacin can cause flushing, redness or a feeling of warmth under the skin. It also can lead to mild dizziness, increased sweating, gastrointestinal upset, gas, nausea and muscle pains, Drugs.com reports. More serious side effects include jaundice and abnormally dark urine, which can be a sign of liver damage. Some patients also might have trouble breathing or develop a fast and irregular heartbeat.
Limitations
Although niacin is very effective at raising HDL levels, it is not a "magic bullet" for preventing cardiovascular disease. Patients looking to raise their HDL levels also should talk to their doctors about lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and adoption of a heart-healthy diet, which also can raise HDL levels. Coronary artery disease is a serious medical condition, so people who are concerned about their risk of developing it should have their blood lipid profile tested and work to raise their HDL levels under the supervision of a physician.
