Compare Niaspan vs. Omega 3 Acid
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.
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.
Used for
- High cholesterol
- High triglycerides (fats)
- Prevention of repeat heart attacks in people with high cholesterol
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Extended release
- Pill
Price
Lowest price
$24.92
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$25.24
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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 review46 reviews so far
59%
saidit'sworth it
50%
saiditworked well
28%
saidit'sa big hassle
Have you used Lovaza (Omega-3 Acid)?
Leave a reviewSide effects
6possible side effects
- Flushing68%
- Itching8%
- Diarrhea7%
- Nausea5%
- Rash5%
- Cough increased3%
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
- Allergic reactions
- Allergy to fish or shellfish
- Heart flutter
- Atrial fibrillation