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Niacin Basics

Take a closer look…SLO-NIACIN® contains controlled-release niacin

What is niacin?

  • Niacin, not niasin, is a type of B vitamin that occurs naturally and aids in the function of the digestive system, skin, and nerves. Niacin has also been used to help manage cholesterol since the 1950s
  • When used under the care and monitoring of a healthcare provider, niacin is the most effective agent available for increasing HDL, or good cholesterol
    • Niacin also decreases LDL and triglyceride levels, which helps maintain total cholesterol within a healthy range for overall heart health

Are there different types of dietary supplement niacin?

  • Immediate release niacin requires niacin to be taken several times a day and the side effects, such as flushing, can be a problem
  • Controlled-release niacin assures the gradual and measured release of niacin and is designed to reduce the incidence of flushing and itching commonly associated with niacin use
  • “Flush-free” niacins may not cause flushing, but these types of niacin have not been shown to have any significant effect on cholesterol

Do all types of niacin support healthy cholesterol?

  • The term niacin is sometimes used to refer to both nicotinic acid and closely related molecules (inositol hexaniacinate, inositol hexanicotinate, and nicotinamide); however, only nicotinic acid—the main ingredient in SLO-NIACIN® Tablets—has been shown to have a significant effect on cholesterol levels

What is different about the niacin in SLO-NIACIN®?

  • The unique SLO-NIACIN® formulation sets it apart from other dietary supplement niacin products. SLO-NIACIN® Tablets utilize a patented polygel® controlled-release delivery system, not available in other dietary supplement niacin products, that assures the gradual and measured release of niacin. It is designed to reduce the incidence of flushing commonly associated with immediate-release niacin use

Next: Learn how SLO-NIACIN® can help support heart health


SLO-NIACIN® Tablets are a niacin dietary supplement shown in clinical studies to raise good cholesterol. With controlled-release niacin, SLO-NIACIN® Tablets gradually release nicotinic acid and are designed to reduce the incidence of flushing and itching commonly associated with niacin use.

Please consult your healthcare professional before taking any dietary supplement.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Do not use SLO-NIACIN® Tablets if you have a known sensitivity or allergy to niacin. Do not take niacin unless under your doctor's supervision if you have heart disease (particularly, recurrent chest pain or recent heart attack), gallbladder disease, gout, arterial bleeding, glaucoma, diabetes, impaired liver function, stomach ulcers, or are pregnant or lactating. Before taking more than 500 mg/day, call your doctor. If you are taking high blood pressure or cholesterol-lowering drugs, call your doctor before taking niacin due to possible interactions. Case reports of unexplained muscle-related complaints, including discomfort, weakness, or tenderness, have been documented with HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors in combination with niacin. Increased uric acid, glucose, and abnormal liver function tests have been reported in persons taking 500 mg/day or more. Discontinue use and call your doctor immediately if you experience persistent flu-like symptoms (nausea, vomiting, not feeling well), loss of appetite, decreased and dark-colored urine, muscle discomfort or weakness, irregular heartbeat or vision problems. Niacin may cause temporary flushing, itching and tingling, feelings of warmth and headache, particularly when beginning, increasing dosage, or changing brands. This safety information is not all-inclusive. For more information, contact your healthcare provider, or call 1-800-654-2299.