How Does Niacin Extended-Release Work?
Niacin extended-release is the extended-release form of the B-complex vitamin niacin. It is believed to lower
triglyceride and
cholesterol levels by increasing the activity of an enzyme known as lipoprotein lipase, which breaks down triglyceride-rich particles (
VLDL) and increases their removal from the body. It is also thought to decrease the amount of these particles made and released from the liver. Depending on the type of
cholesterol problem you have, niacin extended-release also:
Niacin Extended-Release Effects
Since niacin extended-release can lower both LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels (along with lowering total cholesterol and
raising HDL), a person can decrease his or her risk of developing certain health problems in the future.
In previous clinical research studies, people taking niacin extended-release 1000-2000 mg daily were able to:
- Lower triglycerides by 10-30 percent
- Lower LDL cholesterol by 5-15 percent
- Lower total cholesterol by 5-10 percent
- Raise HDL cholesterol by 15-25 percent.
The combination of niacin extended-release with a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (
statin) or a bile acid sequestrant can further
lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Niacin Extended-Release: When and How Do I Take It?
Some general considerations for when and how to take niacin extended-release include:
- Niacin extended-release comes in a tablet form and is taken by mouth once a day at bedtime. It is recommended that you take niacin extended-release after a low-fat snack to prevent an upset stomach.
- Do not break, chew, or crush the niacin extended-release tablets.
- Niacin extended-release may cause flushing (warmth and redness) of the face and neck. To reduce this side effect, take aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) 30 minutes before you take niacin extended-release. It is also important to avoid drinking alcohol or hot drinks around the time you take your niacin extended-release.
- If you are taking a bile acid sequestrant, make sure to take your niacin extended-release more than one hour before the bile acid sequestrant or more than four hours after. Bile acid sequestrants include:
- Niacin extended-release should be taken at the same time every day to help maintain an even level in the blood. Do not take it more often than directed.
- For niacin extended-release to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Niacin extended-release will not work if you stop taking it.
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