Acipimox

A drug used to treat dyslipidemia

Acipimox
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Acipimox is a lipid-lowering agent used primarily in the treatment of dyslipidemia. It is a niacin derivative that functions by reducing the levels of triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood.

Mechanism of action

Acipimox works by inhibiting the release of free fatty acids from adipose tissue. This action is similar to that of niacin, but acipimox is often better tolerated. By reducing the availability of free fatty acids, acipimox decreases the synthesis of triglycerides in the liver, which in turn lowers the production of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and subsequently LDL cholesterol.

Clinical use

Acipimox is used in the management of hyperlipidemia, particularly in patients who are intolerant to other lipid-lowering agents such as statins. It is often prescribed to patients with hypertriglyceridemia and mixed dyslipidemia.

Side effects

Common side effects of acipimox include flushing, gastrointestinal disturbances, and rash. Unlike niacin, acipimox is less likely to cause hepatotoxicity or hyperglycemia.

Pharmacokinetics

Acipimox is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and has a half-life of approximately 2 hours. It is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine.

Related pages

• Niacin
• Dyslipidemia
• Triglyceride
• Cholesterol

Gallery

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  Chemical structure of Acipimox
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  3D space-filling model of Acipimox

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