SLO-NIACIN^® Tablets—what you should know

The following are some common questions about SLO-NIACIN^® Tablets and cholesterol management.

 

Q: What is the difference between SLO-NIACIN^® Tablets and other niacin formulations?

A: In contrast to immediate-release niacin formulations that go to work immediately, SLO-NIACIN^® Tablets (nicotinic acid) contain a patented polygel^® controlled-release formulation that gradually releases niacin into the body to help reduce the risk of flushing and itching; potential side effects of niacin therapy.

Other types of so-called "flush-free" niacin compounds (inositol hexaniacinate) have been introduced to the market, but these niacins are completely different molecules. They have not been proven to significantly affect blood lipid levels and are not recommended to treat blood lipid disorders.^1,2

 

Q: What is the difference between the different kinds of cholesterol?

A: There are a number of fats, or lipids, that naturally circulate in your bloodstream for good reason. It's important to keep these fats at appropriate levels to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system. Too much of some, or too little of others, can contribute to cardiovascular risk.

Your overall cholesterol level—or total cholesterol—is a measurement of the 3 main fats found in your blood³:

• High density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol—this type of cholesterol is also known as "good" cholesterol because it helps move "bad" cholesterol out of the arteries and into the liver so the body can get rid of it. High levels of HDL cholesterol help protect your heart from disease
• Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol—this type of cholesterol is also known as "bad" cholesterol because it accumulates and forms a plaque-like substance, which clings to artery walls and decreases blood flow to the heart; this can lead to a heart attack
• Triglycerides—this is another type of fat found in the blood. A high level of triglycerides is also a risk factor for heart disease

 

Q: Why is niacin an important component of heart health?

A: Niacin is just one of a number of compounds that can help regulate blood lipid levels. Your diet and genetics are also key influencers. Niacin is a dietary supplement and a member of the B-vitamin family. Unlike prescription medications for cholesterol, niacin can be purchased over the counter at pharmacies and other retail stores. Some niacin formulations are also available in prescription strengths from your doctor.

Niacin is proven to work on its own, and in combination with other cholesterol drugs, to improve cholesterol levels and decrease cardiovascular risk.^4,5

Q: What are some of the other factors that influence cardiovascular risk?

A: In addition to cholesterol levels, there are a number of major risk factors that contribute to heart disease. These include cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, a family history of cardiovascular disease, and your age.

 

References:

1. Norris RB. "Flush-free niacin'": dietary supplement may be "benefit-free". Prev Cardiol. 2006;64-65.
2. Meyers CD, Carr MC, Park S, Brunzell JD. Varying cost and free nicotinic acid content in over-the-counter niacin preparations for dyslipidemia. Ann Intern Med. 2003;139:996-1002.
3. Executive Summary of the Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (Adult Treatment Panel III). JAMA. 2001;285(19):2486-2497.
4. Squires RW, Allison TG, Gau GT, Miller TD, Kottke BA. Low-dose, time-release nicotinic acid: effects in selected patients with low concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Mayo Clin Proc. 1992;67:855-860.
5. Brown BG, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Simvastatin and niacin, antioxidant vitamins, or the combination for the prevention of coronary disease. N Engl J Med. 2001;345(22):1583-1592.