Understanding Triglycerides and Their Impact on Health

8. Medications to Control Triglycerides

When lifestyle and dietary changes are not enough to reduce triglyceride levels, prescription medications may help. Fish oil supplements and fibrate medications may also lower triglyceride levels. In the case of fibrates, there is a risk of adverse side effects if taken with other drugs that lower cholesterol. Niacin or vitamin B3 can also lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. However, it takes a high dose of niacin to reduce triglycerides, and there is the risk of serious side effects. The use of niacin to lower triglycerides has fallen out of favor recently due to the potential risks. Only use niacin under the care of a doctor.