Niacin exerts several beneficial lipid-altering effects, including lowering the levels of atherogenic particles that contain apolipoprotein B and raising HDL cholesterol levels. This article reviews the utility of niacin including its mechanism of action, clinical trial data regarding cardiovascular outcomes, adverse effect profile and strategies to address these effects and improve compliance.
- Julia C. Creider
- Robert A. Hegele
- Tisha R. Joy