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Extended-release wax-matrix nicotinic acid supports lipid metabolism, study shows

Highlights

  • Comparison study (n=93 adults)
  • Long-term use supports lipid metabolism
  • Effective dosage: 1,500 mg/day for 16-24 weeks

Summary

This comparison study explores the relative efficacy of long-term use of extended-release, wax-matrix nicotinic acid (WMNA) or a fibrate drug in combination with a heart healthy diet for treatment of hyperlipidemia in patients with ischemic heart disease.

For this study, researchers enrolled 93 patients, aged 50-65 years. The use of WMNA (1,500 mg/day) for 16-24 weeks reduced cholesterol by 16%, low density lipoproteins by 19%, and triglycerides by 26%, and increased high density lipoproteins by 16%. The fibrate drug Besafibrat (Germany), given at a dose indicated for isolated hypertriglyceridemia (600 mg/day) reduced triglycerides by 41%. Diet alone had no significant effect on lipid profiles.

These findings indicate WMNA is an effective treatment for hyperlipidemia in patients with ischemic heart disease, especially if fibrates are contraindicated.

Reference

Mal’ GS. Comparative efficiency of prolonged diet and drug therapies for hyperlipidemias in patients with ischemic heart disease (in Russian; English abstract). Klin Med. 2004;82(5):63-6.

PMID: 15230046
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