NIACIN (CHOLESTEROL-LOWERING) - ORAL

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NIACIN (CHOLESTEROL-LOWERING) - ORAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (NYE-a-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Niacor

GENERIC NAME(S): niacin

Uses

USES: Niacin is used with a proper diet and exercise program to help lower "bad" cholesterol and fats (LDL, triglycerides) and raise "good" cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. It is generally used after non-drug treatments have not been fully successful at lowering cholesterol. Niacin is also known as vitamin B-3 (nicotinic acid), one of the B-complex vitamins. It may be used with or without other medications. Lowering "bad" cholesterol/triglycerides and raising "good" cholesterol helps prevent strokes and heart attacks. Lowering fats may also help reduce the risk of pancreas problems (pancreatitis) in people at risk. In addition to eating a proper diet (such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet), other lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor for more details.


How to use NIACIN (CHOLESTEROL-LOWERING) - ORAL

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually 1-3 times daily. If you take this medicine once daily, take it with your evening meal. Taking niacin on an empty stomach increases side effects (such as flushing, upset stomach). Niacin is available in different formulations (such as immediate and sustained release). Do not switch between strengths, brands, or forms of niacin. Severe liver problems may occur. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Generally, your doctor will start you at a low dose and gradually increase your dose in order to minimize side effects. Your dose will need to be increased slowly, even if you are already taking niacin and are being switched from another niacin product (such as extended-release) to this product. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. If you also take certain other drugs to lower your cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take niacin at least 4-6 hours before or after taking these medications. These products can react with niacin, preventing its full absorption. Continue to take other medications to lower your cholesterol as directed by your doctor. To lessen the chance of side effects such as flushing, avoid alcohol, hot beverages, and eating spicy foods near the time you take niacin. Taking a plain (non-enteric coated, 325 milligram) aspirin or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (such as ibuprofen, 200 milligrams) 30 minutes before taking niacin may help prevent flushing. Ask your doctor if this treatment is right for you. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol do not feel sick. Do not stop taking this medicine unless instructed by your doctor. If you stop taking niacin, you may need to return to your original dose and gradually increase it again. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for instructions on restarting your dose if you have not taken your medication for several days. It is very important to continue to follow your doctor's advice about diet and exercise.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Flushing of the face and neck along with warmth, headache, itching, burning, sweating, chills, or tingling may occur within 20 minutes of taking this medication. Flushing may persist for a few hours after use. These effects should improve or go away as your body adjusts to the medication. Dizziness, stomach upset, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. This is very important if you are also taking medication to lower your blood pressure. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: severe dizziness/fainting, fast/irregular heartbeat, severe headache (migraine), unusual joint pain, swelling of legs/arms, vision problems, severe stomach/abdominal pain, black stools, easy bruising/bleeding, unexplained muscle pain/tenderness/weakness, persistent nausea/vomiting, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), dark urine, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, yellowing eyes/skin. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking niacin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: very low blood pressure, alcohol use, bleeding problems (such as low platelets), diabetes, gallbladder disease, glaucoma, gout, heart disease (such as recent heart attack, unstable angina), kidney disease, liver disease/increase in liver enzymes, untreated mineral imbalance (low phosphate levels), history of stomach/intestinal ulcers, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). This medication may rarely make your blood sugar rise, which can cause or worsen diabetes. If you already have diabetes, check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst/urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also How to Use section. Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Some products that may interact with this drug include: "blood thinners" (such as acenocoumarol, warfarin). Check all prescription and nonprescription medicine labels carefully since vitamins/dietary supplements may also contain niacin or niacinamide (nicotinamide). These may increase your risk of side effects if taken together. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including urine or blood catecholamines, copper-based urine glucose tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Images

NIACOR 500 MG TABLET
NIACOR 500 MG TABLET
NIACOR 500 MG TABLET
color
white
shape
oblong
imprint
US 67, 500

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Faq for NIACIN (CHOLESTEROL-LOWERING) - ORAL

Niacin (also known as vitamin B3) is a water-soluble vitamin that helps convert food into energy and is essential for the health of skin, nerves, and the digestive system. When taken in high doses, niacin can help lower cholesterol levels by decreasing the production of LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol.

Niacin is available as prescription medications in higher strengths than what is found in most over-the-counter multivitamins. It can be used as a stand-alone therapy or in combination with other cholesterol-lowering medications like statins. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose and duration of treatment based on your individual cholesterol levels and medical history.

A common side effect of niacin is known as the "niacin flush," characterized by a warm, tingling, or itching sensation of the skin. This reaction is harmless but can be uncomfortable. Other side effects may include headache, dizziness, upset stomach, diarrhea, and muscle aches. Severe side effects, such as liver damage, are rare but can occur, especially with higher doses.

Yes, niacin can interact with certain medications, so it's important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking. Niacin may interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, certain blood pressure medications, and other cholesterol-lowering drugs. Your doctor will assess potential interactions and adjust your medications if necessary.

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is an essential nutrient that plays a role in energy production and numerous metabolic processes in the body. It has been found to have cholesterol-lowering properties by increasing the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good" cholesterol) and reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad" cholesterol) and triglyceride levels.

Niacin can be taken orally in tablet or capsule form. It is typically prescribed in high doses for cholesterol-lowering purposes, often under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The exact dosage and administration instructions will depend on individual needs, so it is important to follow the prescribed regimen.

Niacin can cause flushing, which is a warm, tingling, or itching sensation on the skin, particularly in the face and neck. This side effect is usually temporary and can be minimized by taking niacin with food or taking an aspirin 30 minutes before the dose. Other potential side effects include headache, stomach upset, dizziness, and liver problems. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional if any concerning side effects occur.

Niacin can be used in combination with other cholesterol-lowering drugs such as statins. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before initiating or modifying any medication regimen to ensure compatibility and safety.

The effects of niacin on cholesterol levels may vary among individuals. In many cases, noticeable changes in lipid levels can be observed within a few weeks of starting treatment, but optimal results may take several months. Regular monitoring of lipid levels is recommended to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments.

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Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.