Niacin is a water-soluble vitamin that is part of the B-vitamin family. It is found in nuts, eggs, dairy products, fish and enriched breads.

Nicotinic acid, the water-soluble vitamin also known as niacin, has been used for many years as a cholesterol-lowering drug. It is considered a drug of first choice because it is safe and effective and has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attack.

Niacin lowers total and LDL cholesterol, as well as triglycerides, and raises HDL-cholesterol as well....