Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: NIACIN - ORAL (NYE-uh-sin)
BRAND NAME(S): Nicobid, Nicolar, 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. It is also used to improve cholesterol and lower fat levels (triglycerides) in the blood.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication as directed. Follow any special dietary recommendations made by your doctor or nutritionist while taking this medication. Take this medication with food to prevent stomach upset. Timed-release capsules or tablets must be swallowed whole. Do not crush or chew them or the long action may be destroyed and side effects increased. If you are prescribed bile acid resin drugs (e.g., colestipol, cholestyramine) separate the dose from niacin by 6 hours or more.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause flushing and a feeling of warmth about the face and neck within the first two hours of taking a dose. Itching, tingling, or headache may occur as well. These effects should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Stomach upset, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also occur. Report promptly any of these effects if they persist or worsen. Unlikely but report promptly: vision problems, dark urine, stomach (abdominal) pain, yellowing eyes or skin, irregular heartbeat, black stools, increased urination, muscle aches/pains. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms include: rash, swelling, dizziness, fainting, trouble breathing. To minimize the flushing effect (redness, itch) take a plain (not enteric-coated) 325 mg aspirin tablet (or other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen) 30 minutes before each niacin dose. After a few weeks, this flushing effect should stop occurring, or decrease in intensity. Also, avoid alcohol or hot beverages near the time of the niacin dose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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