What triglyceride level is considered high and may require niacin plus diet adjustments?

A triglyceride level considered high and that may necessitate treatment with niacin along with diet modifications falls within the range of 350-900 mg/dL. This range is significant because elevated triglyceride levels can pose a considerable risk for cardiovascular diseases and pancreatitis.

When triglyceride levels reach 350 mg/dL or higher, they often indicate that a patient is at increased risk for metabolic syndrome and other cardiovascular complications. Niacin is prescribed in these situations due to its ability to lower triglyceride levels effectively. Additionally, lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments, are pivotal to managing triglyceride levels and reducing associated health risks.

Levels above 900 mg/dL signify a very severe elevation and require more urgent intervention, often due to an extremely high risk for pancreatitis; however, when considering niacin and dietary management, the range of 350-900 mg/dL is where this combined strategy becomes particularly relevant.