Question:

Regarding nicotinic acid (niacin), which of the following is correct?

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Niacin is the single best drug for raising the protective lipoprotein.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Increases HDL
  • Increases triglyceride synthesis
  • Used for type II hyperlipoproteinemia
  • Decreases hydrolysis of VLDL
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Nicotinic acid (niacin) acts on lipid metabolism mainly by inhibiting hormone-sensitive lipase in adipose tissue. This reduces the flow of free fatty acids to the liver, so the liver makes less triglyceride and less VLDL.

Step 2: Niacin is the most effective drug for raising HDL cholesterol. It reduces the apo-A1 mediated hepatic clearance of HDL, so HDL levels rise. This makes option a the correct statement.

Step 3: The other options are the opposite of niacin's actions. It decreases (not increases) triglyceride synthesis. It increases lipoprotein lipase activity, so it increases (not decreases) hydrolysis of VLDL triglyceride. It is used in type I, III, IV and V hyperlipoproteinaemias, not specifically type II, so that option is also incorrect.
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