Conventional wisdom has held that some types of cholesterol may help prevent heart disease, but government researchers have found evidence to the contrary. The findings could change the way doctors treat millions of heart patients.

The New York Times reports drugs such as niacin, which raise levels of “good” cholesterol in order to fight heart disease, do not provide any benefits over therapy that uses statin drugs to lower cholesterol. The new findings contradict previous research that found patients with high “good” cholesterol levels tend to have fewer heart problems than others.

When applied in treatment, the new research could make things easier on heart patients, some who complained of headaches and flushing when taking niacin.

If you or someone you know is on heart medication, what do you think about the new research?

Study Questions Treatment Used in Heart Disease [The New York Times]

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