Niacin

Niacin is a drug/supplement that inhibits lipolysis.  Limiting lipolysis, reduces free fatty acids, which reduces LDL production. Niacin is used as a second line agent for severe hypercholesterolemia.  Niacin causes a characteristic flushing reaction mediated by prostaglandins.  Niacin also causes pruritus, gout, and can cause hepatotoxicity.  

Class Drugs

• Niacin

Class Mechanism of Action

Inhibits lipolysis

• Fatty acids are a large component of LDL cholesterol, so limiting free fatty acid levels limits production of LDL cholesterol

Class Applications

Hyperlipidemia

• Generally used as a second agent in severe hypercholesterolemia or in familial hyperlipidemia

Class Adverse Effects

Flushing

• Prostaglandin mediated, can be limited by taking aspirin prior to niacin

• Slow release formulations can also limit flushing effects

Pruritis

Hepatotoxicity

Gout

Hyperuricemia

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Niacin			"Bill Nye" "A Sin"