What Is Nicotinic Acid?

MAPLE GROVE, Minn., May 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Nicotinic acid (niacin) is the most effective agent available for increasing HDL ("good cholesterol").  Niacin is a type of naturally occurring B vitamin that aids in the function of skin, nerves and digestion.  The adult body needs at least 14-16 mg of niacin daily to function properly. The term niacin is sometimes used to refer to both nicotinic acid and the closely related molecule, nicotinamide, but only nicotinic acid has been shown to have a beneficial effect in cholesterol management.

"First used in the 1950s, niacin is the oldest of today's commonly used agents for cholesterol management," said Dr. Robert Knopp, professor of medicine at Harborview Medical Center and director of the Northwest Lipid Research Clinic, Seattle, WA.  "Slo-Niacin® is a nonprescription dietary supplement that contains niacin in the form of nicotinic acid which when used under the care and monitoring of a healthcare provider has been shown in clinical studies to increase HDL and decrease LDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides on its own and in combination with other cholesterol-lowering agents, such as statins."

HDL is known as "good cholesterol" because it has protective effects on the heart and blood vessels.  It not only removes excess cholesterol in the blood and brings it to the liver for disposal, it may also have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-clotting effects.  Some experts also believe that HDL removes excess cholesterol from arterial plaque, slowing its buildup.  With HDL, higher levels are better.  Low HDL (less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women) puts one at a higher risk for heart disease.

The SLIM Study ("Slo-Niacin® and Atorvastatin Treatment of Lipoproteins and Inflammatory Markers in Combined Hyperlipidemia"), published last year in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology, evaluated the effects of Slo-Niacin® and Lipitor® given separately and together.  With proper monitoring and dosing, combination therapy was shown to have a greater effect on cholesterol levels than either agent alone.  Monotherapy with Slo-Niacin® decreased median triglyceride levels 15%, mean LDL 12% and increased HDL 8%.  Combined therapy decreased median triglycerides 33%, mean LDL 43% and increased HDL 10%.

About Slo-Niacin® Tablets

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. Slo-Niacin® is economical and often costs less than an insurance co-payment, at approximately $16 per month for one hundred 500 mg tablets. Three dosage strengths (250 mg, 500 mg, and 750 mg) of Slo-Niacin® Tablets are available to meet the specific goals patients set with their healthcare provider.

Slo-Niacin® Tablets are manufactured by Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc., a trusted manufacturer of high quality prescription and dietary supplement products, and are conveniently available at pharmacies and other retailers nationwide. For more information, visit www.Slo-Niacin.com for coupons and a store locator.

About Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.

Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. is a rapidly growing pharmaceutical company that manufactures and markets both prescription and consumer products. Privately held since 1919, the company strives to recognize the unmet healthcare needs of our customers. Over the last 20 years that Upsher-Smith has been manufacturing Slo-Niacin®, more than 10 million bottles have been sold. Upsher-Smith prides itself in providing safe, effective, and economical therapies to the ever-challenged healthcare environment. For additional information about Upsher-Smith, visit www.upsher-smith.com.

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.

Important Safety Information

Read the information leaflet provided with each bottle of Slo-Niacin® Tablets.

Do not use Slo-Niacin® Tablets if you have a known sensitivity or allergy to niacin.  Do not take niacin unless under your healthcare provider'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 healthcare provider. If you are taking high blood pressure or cholesterol-lowering drugs, call your healthcare provider 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 healthcare provider 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, call 1-800-654-2299, or visit www.slo-niacin.com.

SOURCE Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.