Indications
Niacin, also known as Nicotinic Acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that has numerous health benefits. It is part of the vitamin B family and is essential for maintaining general health. Nicotinic acid is effective in managing cholesterol levels, reducing inflammation, and helping with mental focus. It can also help maintain normal blood sugar levels and support cognitive function.
Niacin is a vital nutrient for the body, as it is necessary for energy production and other metabolic processes. It can be obtained from a variety of sources, including dietary sources such as meats, eggs, fish, and legumes, or through supplementation. Upon ingestion of niacin, which is soluble in water, it is converted to its active form, niacinamide, and absorbed into the body.
Niaspan is a prescription medication used to reduce the risk of a heart attack in individuals with high cholesterol and a history of heart attacks. It can also be used in combination with other cholesterol-lowering medications to slow down the accumulation of fatty deposits in arteries.
Uses and Dosage
Nicotinic Acid is available in the form of Regular Release Tablets and should be taken orally with a low-fat meal or snack as prescribed by a physician. The recommended dosage of Nicotinic Acid is 1-3 times a day. Taking this medication on an empty stomach can increase the risk of side effects such as flushing and upset stomach.
You need to swallow extended-release Nicotinic Acid tablets whole, without crushing or chewing them, as this can cause the entire dose to be released at once and increase the risk of side effects. Make sure to swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.
The dosage of Nicotinic Acid is determined based on the individual's medical condition and response to treatment. If taking this medication to treat lipid disorders, the dose should be started at a low level and gradually increased to minimize the risk of side effects. If switching from another niacin product, the dose must be increased slowly and according to the doctor's instructions.
If you are taking niacin to treat pellagra, the recommended dose is one tablet twice daily. For people with high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, the initial dosage of Nicotinic Acid is one tablet three times a day, with an increase of one tablet every four days until a maximum daily dose of 12-18 tablets is reached or as directed by a doctor.
Side Effect
Common side effects of Nicotinic Acid may include:
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Cough
- Flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
- Headache
- Itching, rash, dry skin
- Skin discoloration
- Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Serious side effects of Nicotinic Acid
- A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
- Heart attack symptoms: chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, nausea, sweating
- High blood sugar: increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor
- Irregular heartbeats
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Severe warmth or redness under your skin
- Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
- Vision problems
Form and Strength
Nicotinic Acid is available in the form of Regular Release Tablet:
Nicotinic Acid: Regular Release Tablet
- 500 mg
Caution
- Avoid consuming alcohol, hot beverages, and spicy foods near the time you take niacin to reduce the risk of side effects such as flushing.
- Do not discontinue taking this medication unless advised to do so by your doctor. If you do decide to stop taking niacin, you should revert to the original dosage and gradually increase it again.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you must avoid taking this medicine, as it may influence your baby's development.
- Niacin medicine passes into breast milk and may affect your baby, so it is best to avoid taking it while breastfeeding.
- Be cautious when getting up from a sitting or lying position, as this may cause dizziness.
- Avoid eating foods high in fat or cholesterol, as this can reduce the effectiveness of niacin.
- Taking too much niacin can cause side effects such as flushing, itching, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. It can also cause liver damage in rare cases. If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking the supplement and talk to your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the benefits of taking Niacin?
Niacin can help lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and even help with depression. It can also help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of stroke.
What are the side effects of taking Niacin?
Common side effects of taking niacin include flushing, itching, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. In rare cases, niacin can cause liver damage. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any niacin supplements.
What is the recommended dosage of Niacin?
The recommended dosage of niacin can vary depending on the individual and their medical condition. It is recommended to start with a low dose and increase gradually. It is important to follow the instructions on the package label and not exceed the recommended dosage.
What foods contain niacin?
Niacin can be found in many foods, including yeast, meat, fish, milk, eggs, nuts, legumes, and whole-grain cereals. Foods that are particularly high in niacin include liver, tuna, and sunflower seeds.
Is niacin safe to take with other medications?
Niacin may interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking it if you are taking any other medications. Niacin may also interact with cholesterol-lowering drugs, so it is especially important to discuss with your doctor before taking it if you are taking these medications.
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