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Heart Disease (Expert Forum)
Hyperlipidemia
Answered by
This forum is for questions and support regarding heart issues such as: Angina, Angioplasty, Arrhythmia, Bypass Surgery, Cardiomyopathy, Coronary Artery Disease, Defibrillator, Heart Attack, Heart Disease, High Blood Pressure, Mitral Valve Prolapse, Pacemaker, PAD, Stenosis, Stress Tests.
Hyperlipidemia
by PATTY, Aug 29, 1999 12:00AM
My cardiologist told me my lipids are 10 time higher than normal. I have CAD and had a MI in Jan.99. I have done very well with very little heart damage. I am followed closely by my MD. He is starting me on slow niacin 125mg 3 times a day for 2 weeks, 250mg 3 times a day for two weeks, and 500 mg 3 times a day for 2 weeks. Blood test will be done after the last 2 weeks. He said we may have to go as high as 4000 mg. a day. This concerns me as niacin can affect the liver. I know I am at high risk for MI with these high lipids, but if I damage my liver to save my heart what is the use? I am already on Lipitor and I take Endolac for arthritis. All of these can affect the liver. Have you seen any studies on high dose nicain?
Doctor's Answer
by Cleveland Clinic, MD, Aug 30, 1999 12:00AM
, Aug 30, 1999 12:00AM
Niacin is a good drug and usually well tolerated if started slowly. There is a risk of increased liver enzymes and these must be monitored but they are reversible if detected and the dosage reduced. Given your cholesterol profile it sounds like niacin is a good drug for you.
