Niacin Cholesterol

Niacin Cholesterol – will Niacin increase my ‘Good’ Cholesterol?

What is Niacin?

Niacin is a water-soluble B vitamin. Niacin converts carbohydrates into sugar (glucose), which is energy fuel for your body. Other benefits of Niacin are that it contributes to a healthier digestive system, nervous system, eyes and also improves the condition of your skin and hair.

Niacin is found in poultry, dairy products, fish, nuts, lean meats, and eggs. You may also find that Niacin has been included in the manufacture of some cereals and breads.

Niacin may also be provided as a supplement or a multivitamin. It is sold in larger doses when used as a treatment to increase your HDL ‘good’ cholesterol.

Niacin Cholesterol – Nicotinic Acid Agents

Niacin, Niacor and Slo-Niacin are common names for nicotinic acid agents.

Nicotinic acid reduces total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides at the same time raising HDL.  It reduces LDL by 10 to 20%, triglycerides by 20 to 50% and raises HDL by 15 to 35%.  Nicotinamide is a niacin by product after the body breaks it down.  Nicotinamide has no effect in lowering cholesterol and should not be used in place of nicotinic acid.

There are two types of nicotinic acid.  One for immediate release and one for extended release.  Immediate release is inexpensive and widely available without a prescription.  However, because of potential side effects it must not be used for lowering cholesterol without being monitored by a doctor.

Niacin that is extended release is often tolerated better than crystalline niacin.  But has a greater chance of causing damage to the liver.

Niacin Cholesterol - a deficiency of niacin

A deficiency of niacin causes pellagra. The symptoms include inflamed skin, digestive problems, and mental impairment.

Niacin Cholesterol – potential side effects of Niacin ‘nicotinic acid’

A common and troublesome side effect of nicotinic acid is flushing or hot flashes, which are the result of the widening of blood vessels. Most patients develop a tolerance to flushing, and in some patients, it can be decreased by taking the drug during or after meals or by the use of aspirin or other similar medications prescribed by your doctor.

Three other major adverse effects include liver problems, gout, and high blood sugar. Risk of these three complications increases as the dose of nicotinic acid is increased your doctor will probably not prescribe this medicine for you if you have diabetes, because of the effect on your blood sugar.

Niacin Cholesterol – Warnings

Individuals who are allergic to nicotinic acid, and those who have liver disease, active peptic ulcer, or arterial bleeding, should not use nicotinic acid agents.

If you are taking medication for high blood pressure, the results may be increased while taking niacin.  You should have a system available to monitor your blood pressure when beginning a new niacin regimen.

Again, there may be side effects when mixed with other medications or foods.  Discuss with your doctor and make certain you make him aware of all medications prescribed or otherwise.

Niacin Cholesterol – what are the symptoms of a Niacin overdose?

Provided your intake of niacin is in accordance with the quantities prescribed by your Doctor you should not have any problems. High Cholesterol, high blood fats (lipids) and niacin deficiency can be treated effectively with niacin

Symptoms and indications of a niacin overdose include:

§ Flushing of your skin

§ Increased heartbeat

§ Itching

§ Stomach pains

§ Nausea and sickness

§ Serious liver damage (hepatoxicity)

If you have any concerns that you may have taken an overdose of niacin, speak to your doctor and he will ensure that you are taking the correct dosage. If you feel sure you have overdosed, seek emergency medical attention.

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