The nicotinic acid form of niacin lowers cholesterol, but other forms of niacin do not. These other forms that do not lower cholesterol include nicotinamide and inositol nicotinate (also called no-flush niacin). Niacin is also known as a B vitamin. I strongly recommend my patients specifically take Twin Labs No Flush B3, which comes in a 640mg capsule.
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Nicotinic acid reduces the production of triglycerides and VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein, which is converted to LDL in the blood). This leads to decreased LDL ("bad") cholesterol, increased HDL ("good") cholesterol, and lowered triglycerides. Nicotinic acid raises HDL cholesterol more than other lipid-lowering medicines.
Nicotinic acid is used in people who have low HDL levels and or high triglyceride levels because it raises HDL and lowers triglycerides. Niacin may not be appropriate or is used cautiously in people who have:
Gout.
Active stomach ulcer.
Oversensitivity to niacin.
Glaucoma.
Type II diabetics who do not have their blood sugar levels controlled.
Clotting disorders, such as hemophilia.
Active liver disease.
Alcoholism.
Benefits of B3
LDL can be reduced by 5% to 25%.
HDL can be increased by 15% to 35%.
Triglycerides can be reduced by 20% to 50%.
The immediate-release form is safe for long-term use.
Possible side effects:
Sudden flushing or hot flashes
Itching
Liver problems (hepatotoxicity) High blood sugar (hyperglycemia).
Gout
Stomach upset, gas, nausea, diarrhea.
The extended release form of niacin, such as Niaspan, is a newer form of niacin that does not appear to cause the liver problems associated with sustained-release niacin. Extended release niacin is a prescription medicine.
Facial flushing and itching may never occur, if it does it usually lasts 20-40 min, and gradually diminishes over time for most people. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing the dose may reduce the flushing and itching.
Tips to avoid flushing
Take regular aspirin 325mg (white non coated tablet) before dinner
Have dinner (avoid alcoholic beverages or spicy foods)
Take Niacin immediately after dinner
If you are going to be having alcoholic beverages with dinner, skip your Niacin dose that evening.
Stop Niacin if you develop hives, and call me.
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