Benefit of Elevation of HDL-C in Women

Benefit of Elevation of HDL-cholesterol/Triglyceride Lowering on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Women

The combination of HDL-C elevation, lowering of triglycerides and further LDL-C reduction accomplished by the addition of niacin to statin medication would improve endothelial function as compared to LDL-C reduction alone in patients with and without coronary artery disease and the combination of low HDL-C/high triglycerides.

The combination of lipid lowering therapy would have beneficial effects on markers of inflammation. These benefits would be particularly evident in women.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Stable CAD(coronary artery disease) patients on statin therapy with LDL-C between 90-135mg/dl and triglycerides > 150mg/dl
• Well-controlled diabetes with HbA1C < 7.5 currently on statin therapy, able to tolerate Niacin without unstable blood glucose levels with LDL-C between 90-135mg/dl and triglycerides > 150mg/dl
• Stable patients on statin therapy with LDL-C between 90-135mg/dl and triglycerides > 150mg/dl

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of MI(myocardial infarction), PTCA(percutaneous transluminal coronary angiography) or surgery within previous 3 months
• Currently on Niaspan and unwilling to withdraw Niaspan therapy or known intolerance to niacin
• Active or known gall bladder disease
• Pregnant or nursing women
• Significant comorbidity that precludes participation
• Significant liver disease, active alcoholism, or LFT(liver function test) >1.5x's ULN( upper limit of normal) at screening
• Diabetes with Hg A1C(hemoglobin A1c) < 7.5
• PI perceived inability to comply with protocol