The antilipidemic effects of plain and extended-release niacin

The extensive antihyperlipidemic effects of niacin are well known. Cardiac doses of niacin are effective in lowering low density lipoprotein, triglyceride, and lipoprotein(a) levels and in elevating high density lipoprotein levels. Adverse reactions to niacin range from annoying cutaneous flushing to hepatic toxicity. A new extended-release form of niacin (Niaspan) has been found to have relatively mild hepatic effects. Nighttime dosing of Niaspan appears to attenuate cutaneous flushing. Regardless of the form of drug prescribed, patients advised to use niacin should be carefully screened and monitored. Adverse effects of niacin are emphasized because of their particular importance in the provision of primary care. The dosing schedules for both plain niacin and extended-release niacin are discussed. (c) 2000 by CHF, Inc.