Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Niacin is utilized for the prophylaxis and management of niacin deficiency, otherwise known as pellagra. This deficiency can arise as a consequence of several medical conditions, including alcohol abuse, malabsorption syndrome, and Hartnup disease, as well as inadequate dietary intake or prolonged utilization of certain medications like isoniazid.
The symptoms of niacin deficiency can manifest as diarrhea, confusion, tongue redness and swelling, and peeling skin. Niacin is classified as Vitamin B3, a member of the B-complex vitamins, which play a crucial role in supporting the body’s metabolic processes and maintaining overall health.
Uses and Dosage
Niacin should be administered orally in conjunction with a low-fat meal or snack. Typically, the medication is taken 1 to 3 times daily. The administration of niacin on an empty stomach increases the likelihood of side effects, such as flushing and digestive upset.
Niacin is available in different formulations, including immediate and sustained release. Avoid switching between strengths, brands, or forms of niacin as this may lead to severe liver problems.
Extended-release capsules should be ingested whole and should not be crushed or chewed. Doing so may result in the immediate release of the entire dose, increasing the risk of side effects. Similarly, extended-release tablets should not be split.
In order to minimize the occurrence of side effects such as flushing, avoid consuming alcohol, hot beverages, and spicy foods around the time of niacin administration. Taking a plain, non-enteric coated 325 milligram aspirin or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, such as ibuprofen 200 milligrams, 30 minutes prior to taking niacin may help prevent flushing.
Taking certain drugs to lower cholesterol, such as bile acid-binding resins, such as cholestyramine or colestipol, niacin should be taken at least 4 to 6 hours before or after taking these medications. This is due to the interaction between niacin and these products, which may impair its full absorption.
The dosage of niacin is determined based on an individual’s medical condition and response to treatment. In cases of lipid disorders, the physician may initiate treatment with a low dose of niacin and gradually increase the dose to reduce the risk of side effects.
Take niacin regularly to maximize its therapeutic benefits. To aid in remembering to take the medication, it is recommended to administer it at the same time(s) each day.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- flushing/warmth in the face and neck
- headache
- chills
- tingling
- stomach upset
- heartburn
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- nausea/vomiting that doesn’t stop
- severe dizziness/fainting
- fast/irregular heartbeat
- severe headache
- unusual joint pain
- swelling of legs/arms
- vision problems
- severe stomach/abdominal pain
- black stools
- easy bruising/bleeding
- unexplained muscle pain/tenderness/weakness
- dark urine
- vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- yellowing eyes/skin
Caution
Prior to taking Niacin, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have a history of allergies or if you are currently experiencing any allergies. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that could potentially cause an allergic reaction or other adverse effects.
If you have any of the following health conditions, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Niacin: low blood pressure, a history of alcohol consumption, bleeding problems, diabetes, gallbladder disease, glaucoma, gout, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease or elevated liver enzyme levels, untreated mineral imbalances, a history of stomach or intestinal ulcers, and an underactive thyroid.
Niacin may cause dizziness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate this side effect. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you are able to do so safely.
In some cases, Niacin may raise blood sugar levels, which could potentially worsen or cause diabetes. If you have diabetes, regularly monitor your blood sugar levels and inform your doctor of any changes.
During pregnancy, Niacin should only be used if deemed necessary by a healthcare professional. The medication is known to pass into breast milk, consult your doctor prior to breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Niacin is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
nicotinic acid tablet:
- 500mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Niacin to work?
Typically, it may take a few weeks for niacin to alter cholesterol levels.
Is Niacin good for nerves?
Niacin has long been recognized as a key mediator of neuronal development and survival, and may be of value for the treatment of neuropathy.
Resources
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-long-does-it-take-for-niacin-to-lower-cholesterol#how-quick
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7737454/#:~:text=Among%20the%20B%20vitamins%2C%20niacin,for%20the%20treatment%20of%20neuropathy
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-niacin/art-20364984
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Niacin-HealthProfessional/
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3745-126/niacin-oral/niacin-supplement-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/niacin.html#
