Acipimox is a niacin derivative used as a hypolipidemic agent. It is used in low doses and may have less marked adverse effects, although it is unclear whether the recommended dose is as effective as are standard doses of nicotinic acid. Acipimox inhibits the production of triglycerides by the liver and the secretion of VLDL, which leads indirectly to a modest reduction in LDL and increase in HDL. Long-term administration is associated with reduced mortality, but unwanted effects limit its clinical use. Adverse effects include flushing (associated with Prostaglandin D2), palpitations, and GI disturbances. Flushing can be reduced by taking aspirin 20-30 min before taking Acipimox. High doses can cause disorders of liver function, impair glucose tolerance and precipitate gout.
Used in the treatment of hyperlipidemias (abnormally elevated levels of any or all lipids and/or lipoproteins in the blood).
Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
Department of Cardiology, Aarhus Universityhospital, Skejby, Aarhus N, Denmark
Aarhus University Hospital, Skejby Sygehus, Department of Cardiology, Aarhus, Denmark
Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
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