Compare Niaspan vs. Omega 3 Acid

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Niaspan (Niacin)

Prescription only

Lovaza (Omega-3 Acid)

Prescription only
Lowers cholesterol.

Niaspan (Niacin) lowers triglycerides, but isn't as good as statins for improving cholesterol levels.

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3.2/ 5 average rating with 380 reviewsforNiaspan
Lowers triglycerides.

Omega-3 Acid is good for lowering triglycerides (fats), but some people can't take it due to allergies.

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3.6/ 5 average rating with 46 reviewsforOmega 3 Acid
Upsides
  • Lowers "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and raises "good" cholesterol (HDL) in people who have trouble doing this through diet and exercise.
  • Good for lowering triglycerides (fats).
  • Lowers triglycerides (fats) when combined with exercise and a low cholesterol diet.
  • In studies, Omega-3 Acid has lowered the risk of stroke and heart attack leading to death, especially in people with high cholesterol or high triglycerides.
Downsides
  • By itself, Niaspan (Niacin) isn't as effective as statins for improving cholesterol levels.
  • It can cause flushing and stomach pain or discomfort.
  • You need to take it before bedtime with a low-fat snack.
  • If you miss doses often, you may need to re-start taking the medicine more regularly at a lower dose.
  • You can't take it if you're allergic to fish or shellfish.
  • You have to take it with food.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Extended release
  • Pill
Price
Lowest price
$22.34
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Lowest price
$49.57
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Reviews
380 reviews so far
43%
saidit'sworth it
31%
saiditworked well
19%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Niaspan (Niacin)?

Leave a review
46 reviews so far
59%
saidit'sworth it
50%
saiditworked well
28%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Lovaza (Omega-3 Acid)?

Leave a review
Side effects
6possible side effects
  • Flushing
    68%
  • Itching
    8%
  • Diarrhea
    7%
  • Nausea
    5%
  • Rash
    5%
  • Cough increased
    3%
See more detailed side effects
3possible side effects
  • Eructation
    4%
  • Taste perversion
    4%
  • Dyspepsia
    3%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Muscle pain
    • Taking Niaspan (Niacin) with statins
  • Liver damage
    • Heavy alcohol use
    • Past history of liver disease
  • High blood sugar
    • Diabetes
  • Low platelets
    • Taking Niaspan (Niacin) with anticoagulants
  • Gout
    • Gout
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Allergic reactions
    • Allergy to fish or shellfish
  • Heart flutter
    • Atrial fibrillation
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Niaspan (Niacin)
Learn more about Lovaza (Omega-3 Acid)