Niacin therapy in atherosclerosis

Abstract

New data indicate that niacin alters lipoprotein metabolism in novel ways, and mediates other beneficial nonlipid changes that may be atheroprotective. This information forms the rationale for the use of niacin in combination with agents possessing complementary mechanisms of action (e.g. statins) for cardiovascular risk reduction beyond that observed with monotherapy. Further research into the specific mechanisms of niacin may identify additional targets for future drug development.