Which type of cholesterol condition is treated by Nicotinic Acid?

Nicotinic acid, also known as niacin, is primarily used to treat high cholesterol levels. It functions by reducing the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, and can also increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as "good" cholesterol. By favorably altering lipid profiles in this way, nicotinic acid helps to lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases associated with high cholesterol levels.

The effectiveness of nicotinic acid in managing cholesterol makes it a key treatment in the context of hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol). Its role in directly influencing cholesterol levels is distinct from treatments aimed at controlling high blood pressure, managing diabetes, or addressing cardiovascular disease as a whole, which may involve a more complex approach with different types of medications or therapies.