The researchers note that their findings complement previous reports that have shown deteriorations in glycaemic control in patients with diabetes on niacin. The mechanism behind the observed detrimental effects of niacin on glycaemic control and diabetes risk however remains unclear.
Recent major trials (AIM HIGH, HPS2-THRIVE) have now confirmed a lack of cardiovascular benefit when niacin is added to statin therapy, with an increased risk of a variety of adverse events along with the expected increase in cutaneous flushing. The observed possible effect on diabetes risk therefore suggests that the risk: benefit ratio of this drug is even less favourable.