Niacin and blood cholesterol
With the latest news that Zetia is no longer effective for lowering cholesterol, everyone is rushing off to buy niacin. Zetia was compared to niacin in the recent trials and failed miserably. For the consumer, this may be great news as Zetia is prohibitively expensive whereas niacin is available over the counter and is relatively cheap.
So should the consumer stop Zetia and consume niacin?
Niacin is a vitamin B component and has been known to lower bad cholesterol. Niacin is sold as Niaspan, niacor or slo-niacin. It is widely available in dairy products, lean meat, fish, poultry, nut and eggs.
Niacin has been shown to raise good cholesterol by at least 30% when taken on a regular basis but unlike many other drugs it also lowers the bad cholesterol.
Overall niacin is safe but can cause annoying side effects like flushing of the face, a warm sensation and these side effects worsen if you take alcohol. To reduce these side effects, one can take an aspirin beforehand. Other minor side effects include stomach upset, headaches and dizziness. Long term side effects of niacin are unknown and it is wise not to take mega doses of this vitamin.
Why niacin has not received much attention compared to other drugs to lower cholesterol is a mystery but health professional believe it has more to do with money and the pharmaceutical companies.
Physicians recommend that lowering of blood cholesterol should first start off with changes in life style, exercise and not smoking. With controversy surrounding most drug products, it is better to discuss any changes with medications with your physician.