Which drug or drug class inhibits mobilization of free fatty acids from peripheral tissues?

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is a lipid-lowering agent that primarily acts by inhibiting the mobilization of free fatty acids from peripheral tissues. This mechanism is important because by reducing the release of free fatty acids into the circulation, niacin can decrease hepatic triglyceride synthesis. As a result, there is a decrease in the production of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and ultimately low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the liver.

In addition to its effects on fatty acid mobilization, niacin also has a positive impact on increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, making it unique among lipid-lowering agents. This dual action helps improve the overall lipid profile in patients with dyslipidemia.

Other classes of lipid-lowering agents, such as fibrates, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and statins, operate through different mechanisms. Fibrates primarily enhance the oxidation of fatty acids in the liver and muscle, cholesterol absorption inhibitors focus on reducing the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine, and statins inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, leading to decreased cholesterol synthesis in the liver. None of these classes directly impact the mobilization of free fatty acids from peripheral tissues in