Niacin | Niaspan

Niacin is a B vitamin that should be taken only under physician supervision. It improves all lipoproteins - total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and HDL

Niacin (also known as vitamin B3) is found in dairy products, poultry, fish, lean meats, nuts, and eggs. Legumes and enriched breads and cereals also supply some niacin.

Available Niacin medication

Niacin brand names include Niacor® - immediate release, Niaspan® - sustained release, Slo-Niacin®, Nicolar, Nicotinex Elixir, Novo-Niacin and several others.

Niacin medication types

Niacin is available in three formulations
•    IR or immediate release,
•    SR or sustained release or timed release and
•    ER or extended release forms.
It is recommended to start with the immediate release form; discuss with the doctor which type is best suitable for you.

Nicotinamide, another form of the vitamin niacin, does not lower cholesterol levels and should not be used in the place of nicotinic acid.

How to take niacin medication

Niacin are usually started on low daily doses and gradually increased to an average daily dose of 1.5 to 3 grams per day for the immediate release form, and 1.5 to 2 grams per day for the other forms.

Expected benefits of Niaspan a niacin medication

Raises HDL good cholesterol by 15 to 35 percent and
Lowers LDL bad cholesterol by 10 to 20 percent and reduce triglycerides by 20 to 50 percent.

Who should be careful when taking niacin medication

Consult your doctor if you have a liver problem, stomach ulcers, or a serious bleeding problem.

Possible side effects of niacin medication

Flushing or hot flashes, due to blood vessels dilation.
Nausea, indigestion, gas, vomiting, diarrhea, and the activation of peptic ulcers.
Liver functions may be closely monitored, as niacin can cause toxicity.
Liver problems, gout, and high blood sugar (cautious if diabetics).

The extended release form may cause less flushing than the other forms.

All patients taking niacin should be closely monitored by their doctor to avoid complications from this medication. Self medication should definitely be avoided because of the possibility of missing a serious side effect if not under a doctor's care.

Important if high blood pressure: Effect of high blood pressure medicines may be increased while on niacin.

Important if diabetes: Niacin may increase blood glucose level, so careful when you are diabetes.