Niaspan absorption - High Cholesterol Message Board

Niaspan User · 03-19-2009, 02:03 PM

Without medication, I run a very high triglyceride level (> 1000). I also run an elevated LDL and a low HDL.

I have always exercised (run 8-12 miles a week followed by some free weights) and my diet includes whole grains and few sugars or alcohol.

I currently take Lipitor (10 mg) in the morning with oatmeal at 7 AM.
I take an aspirin (81 mg) at 8 AM.
I eat an apple or a pear at 8:30 AM or 9 AM, followed by 500 mg of Niaspan.

Here's my problem (my apologies for this topic):

The Niaspan passes through me undigested.
Anyone know anything about this?

(I also take Tricor, 145 mg, in the evening, along with another Niaspan, 500mg, at night before bed.)

Thanks.

ACE28 · 03-25-2009, 08:46 AM

The best time to take Niaspan is before bedtime with a full glass of water.
For better absorbtion you can take the Niaspan with a light snack. In regard to the high triglycerides there is a prescription Omega3 fish oil now available called LOVAZA which can lower triglycerides dramatically, especially when combined with Niacin. My triglycerides dropped by 250 points in 4 weeks. It is very expensive (unfortunately). If you have insurance it may be a great option to try. 1 gel tablet is the equivalent of 5 gel tablets purchased at most stores. Most important is the prescription fish oil is FDA approved and the ingredients are precisely controlled to provide the levels of EPA/DHA necessary.