Niacin for lipid disorders

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Of the lipid-lowering agents, niacin (nicotinic acid) has been available the longest. Its efficacy in lowering LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels and in raising HDL cholesterol levels makes it very useful for many patients. However, the frequency of adverse reactions in persons taking niacin has inhibited physicians from using the agent optimally in practice. In this article, Dr Brown examines its current role in the treatment of dyslipidemia.

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Notes on contributors

W. Virgil Brown

W. Virgil Brown, MD Dr Brown is Charles Howard Candler professor of internal medicine and director, division of arteriosclerosis and lipid metabolism, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta.