Clinical update on the use of niacin for the treatment of dyslipidemia.
OBJECTIVE
To provide nurse practitioners (NPs) with clinical and practical information about the use of niacin in the treatment of dyslipidemia.


METHODS
Research-based and review articles in the medical literature and National Cholesterol Education Program guidelines.


CONCLUSIONS
Niacin provides beneficial effects on all major lipid fractions, particularly high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides. Niacin also reduces low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol; lipoprotein (a); and the number of highly atherogenic small, dense LDL particles. Niacin promotes angiographic regression when used in combination with other drugs that lower LDL cholesterol and can reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with coronary heart disease. Several niacin formulations are available, but the safety (i.e., from hepatotoxicity) and tolerability (i.e., severity of flushing) of these niacin formulations may differ.


CONCLUSIONS
Niacin therapy is appropriate for many types of lipid abnormalities, including complex dyslipidemias. NPs can take several steps to minimize potential side effects of niacin therapy and to ensure that patients adhere to this important intervention.
Berra
Kathy
K
Stanford Prevention Research Center, California, USA. kberra@stanford.edu
D006801:Humans; D006949:Hyperlipidemias / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology; D000960:Hypolipidemic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009525:Niacin / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012449:Safety; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology
D000960:Hypolipidemic Agents; D009525:Niacin