Niacin, also referred to as Vitamin B3 or Nicotinic acid, is recognized as a cardio-protective agent, primarily due to its action in inhibiting triglyceride hydrolysis, resulting in both an increased HDL and a lowered triglyceride level.
In fact, niacin has been associated with an increase in HDL by as much as 30%. In the body, its primary function is as a component of the coenzymes NAD+ and NADP+, both of which function in the redox state of the cell.
Niacin may also been known to substantially reduce headaches as well as stimulate Interleukin 10 production.
Niacin at 800 mg/day may also be helpful in the treatment of Scleroderma.