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What are the Side Effects of Niacin for Lowering Cholesterol?

Niacin, or vitamin B3, is one of the eight B-complex vitamins used to help the body convert food to energy. It also can be used in higher doses to lower cholesterol, but only under a doctor's supervision.

  1. Benefits

    • Niacin helps improve blood circulation. It also helps the body covert food to energy.

    Lowering Cholesterol

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, niacin can be used to lower cholesterol levels. Studies also indicate that niacin may slow the development of atherosclerosis when used with cholesterol-lowering drugs, exercise and diet.

    Side Effects

    • Niacin taken in high doses can cause flushing of the skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other side effects include increased blood sugar, upset stomach, headache, dizziness and liver damage.

    Research

    • Research from the Mayo Clinic indicates that niacin in high doses can reduce low-density ("bad") cholesterol and trigylcerides and raise high-density ("good") cholesterol.

    Warning

    • The Mayo Clinic warns that niacin in high doses (over 1,000 mg daily) should be considered a drug and not a supplement. Therefore, it should be used only under the supervision of a doctor.

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