Pharmaceutical Business review

OTC Dietary Supplement Slo-Niacin Increases HDL: Upsher-Smith Labs

Niacin is a type of B vitamin that aids in the function of the digestive system, skin, nerves and heart health. The adult body needs at least 14-16mg of niacin daily to function properly.

Upsher-Smith Laboratories said that when used under the care and monitoring of a healthcare provider, Slo-Niacin has been shown in clinical studies to raise HDL and lower LDL (bad cholesterol), total cholesterol, and triglycerides on its own and in combination with other cholesterol-lowering agents, such as statins.

Earlier, the Slim Study, 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.

In the study, Monotherapy with Slo-Niacin decreased median triglyceride levels 15%, mean LDL 12% and increased HDL 8%. Persons already taking cholesterol lowering drugs should contact a healthcare provider before taking niacin because of possible side effects.

Slo-Niacin tablets utilise 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.

Mark Evenstad, president of Upsher-Smith Laboratories, said: “Maintaining levels of HDL, or ‘good cholesterol,’ within a healthy range is a crucial step in maintaining overall heart health. Slo-Niacin, a non-prescription dietary niacin supplement, features nicotinic acid – the most effective substance available for increasing HDL, which supports heart health and cholesterol management.”