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Niacin

Wed, 2010-06-23 22:05 -- Thiruvelan

Niacin is a B vitamin that should take only under physician supervision. It improves all lipoproteins - total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and HDL. Niacin can decrease LDL & triglycerides and increases HDL.

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

Niacin medication drugs

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

Niacin medication drug types - Niacin is available in three formulations:

  • IR or immediate release,
  • SR or sustained release or timed release
  • ER or extended release forms.

It is recommending starting with the immediate release form; discussing with the doctor, which one is best suitable for you.

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

How do you take a niacin medication drug?

Niacin is usually start on low daily doses and gradually increases 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 reduces triglycerides by 20 to 50 percent.

Who should be careful when taking niacin medication drug?

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

Possible side effects of niacin medication drugs

  • Flushing or hot flashes may be due to blood vessel’s dilation.
  • Nausea, indigestion, gas, vomiting, diarrhea, and the activation of peptic ulcers
  • Closely monitor liver functions as niacin can cause toxicity.
  • Liver problems, gout, and high blood sugar (cautious if diabetics)

The extended release form may cause fewer flushing than the other forms. Patients who take niacin should closely monitor by their doctor to avoid complications from this medication drug. Self-medication should definitely avoid 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 medication drug may increase while on niacin.

Important if diabetes: Niacin may increase the blood-glucose level, so diabetic should be careful.

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