Niacin Nicotinic Acid

What is Niacin used for?

Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) is an anti-hyperlipidemic medication used to lower blood cholesterol levels. It is used in combination with diet and exercise. This medicine contains Niacin, also called Nicotinic acid, a B vitamin (vitamin B3). Niacin increases HDL levels (good cholesterol) in your body and also lowers LDL levels (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides in your body. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

What is the recommended dosage of Niacin?

The dosage of Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.

Take Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) with a full glass of cool water.

What if you miss a dose of Niacin?

If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.

What if you overdose on Niacin?

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Niacin (Nicotinic Acid), seek medical attention immediately.

What other drugs could interact with Niacin?

• Doxazosin
• Felodipine
• Nicardipine
• Nifedipine
• Nimodipine
• Nisoldipine
• Verapamil
• Warfarin

It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Niacin (Nicotinic Acid).

Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines that may increase the effect of Niacin (Nicotinic Acid), and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.

Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) can interact with anticoagulants and heart medications.

Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.

What are the side effects of Niacin?

Like other medicines, Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.

It is pertinent to note that side effects of Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.

Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) can cause side effects such as diarrhea, dizziness, abdominal pain, fainting, headache, indigestion, itching, and nausea. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Niacin (Nicotinic Acid).

What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Niacin?

Is it possible for me to take Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Niacin (Nicotinic Acid)?
What are the possible drug interactions of Niacin (Nicotinic Acid)?
How will Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) work in my body?
How should Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) drug interactions and side effects?

Note

The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.