If you have high cholesterol, it is important to work with your doctor to establish good cholesterol management. Your body contains two types of cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, also called low-density lipoprotein, or "bad" cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol, called high-density lipoprotein or "good" cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is the portion of your cholesterol that can stick to artery walls and put you at risk for heart disease and stroke. HDL cholesterol transports LDL back to the liver for disposal. Niacin is a cholesterol medication that is effective in lowering LDL levels and increasing HDL levels. Ask your doctor if niacin therapy is appropriate for you.
Types of Niacin
Niacin is a type of vitamin B-3. It aids the body in manufacturing various sex and stress-related hormones, improves circulation and reduces blood cholesterol. Niacin in the form of nicotinic acid is the only type that can affect your cholesterol. There are two other types known as niacinamide and inositol hexanicotinate, which are not effective in cholesterol management.
Niacin Administration
Niacin in the form of nicotinic acid has been in use since the 1950s to manage cholesterol levels. Not only does niacin decrease LDL levels, it is also the most effective drug used to increase HDL cholesterol levels. In addition, when used in combination with statins, the effects on cholesterol levels are even more impressive. To treat cholesterol levels, high doses of niacin are required. Your doctor will start you on a baseline dose of niacin and then increase the dose depending upon how you react to it. Since niacin in high doses can cause undesirable side effects, your doctor will monitor you during treatment and adjust doses as necessary.
Side Effects
Side effects related to niacin include skin flushing, upset stomach, blurred vision, dizziness and headaches. Niacin therapy may also increase your risk of liver damage and stomach ulcers. Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects or any other symptoms that concern you.
Warnings
Do not take niacin without the approval of your doctor. If you have gout, a history of stomach ulcers or liver disease, you should not take niacin. If you are diabetic or have gallbladder disease, you should only take niacin under the careful supervision of your doctor. Niacin may interact with other medications, such as antibiotics, aspirin, blood thinners, blood pressure medications, nicotine patches, diabetic medications and other cholesterol-lowering drugs, so make sure to update your doctor with a current medication list.
