niacin - oral, Slo-Niacin

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GENERIC NAME: NIACIN - ORAL (NYE-a-sin)

BRAND NAME(S): Slo-Niacin

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Niacin (nicotinic acid) is used to prevent and treat niacin deficiency (pellagra). Niacin deficiency may result from certain medical conditions (e.g., alcohol abuse, malabsorption syndrome, Hartnup disease), poor diet, or long-term use of certain medications (e.g., isoniazid).Niacin deficiency can cause diarrhea, confusion (dementia), tongue redness/swelling, and peeling red skin. Niacin is also known as vitamin B3 , one of the B-complex vitamins. Vitamins help to support the body's ability to make and break down natural compounds (metabolism) needed for good health. Niacinamide (nicotinamide) is a different form of vitamin B3 and does not work the same as niacin. Do not substitute unless directed by your doctor.OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug, but may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.Niacin may also be used to improve cholesterol and lower fat levels (triglycerides) in the blood under the care of your doctor. It is generally used after non-drug treatments have not been fully successful at lowering cholesterol (e.g., diet change, increase in exercise, weight loss if overweight). Doses for treating these blood fat problems are usually much higher than for dietary problems.

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