৳ 6/unit
Pack: ৳ 180
৳ 6/unit
Pack: ৳ 180
At a glance
Niacin (nicotinic acid) is a vitamin B3 derivative used to lower high triglyceride and cholesterol levels. It increases HDL (good cholesterol) and decreases LDL, VLDL and triglycerides.
Indications
- Primary hypercholesterolemia
- Mixed dyslipidemia
- Very high serum triglyceride levels (Type IV and V hyperlipidemia)
- Reduction of recurrent nonfatal MI in patients with history of MI
Pharmacology
Nicotinic acid is a derivative of vitamin B3 incorporated into NAD and NADP coenzymes. It decreases hepatic synthesis of VLDL to reduce total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL and triglycerides, and increases HDL cholesterol.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Treatment of pellagra: 300-500 mg daily in divided doses
- Hartnup disease: 50-200 mg daily
- Hyperlipidemias: Initial 250 mg in the evening, increase every 4-7 days, max 6 g/day
- Extended-release: 500 mg/day initially, up to 1-2 g/day
- Vasodilation: 100-150 mg 3-5 times daily
Pediatric Dose: Pellagra: 100-300 mg daily in divided doses
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Flushing (warmth in face, ears, neck and trunk)
- Itching
- Erythema (skin redness)
- Tingling
- Nausea
- GI upset
- Jaundice
- Hypotension
- Tachycardia
- Increased blood glucose and uric acid
- Myalgia
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Niacin may be unsafe during pregnancy; animal studies show evidence of fetal harm.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in liver disease; monitor liver function regularly
- Monitor blood glucose in diabetic patients
- Caution in unstable angina or acute phase of MI
- Caution in patients predisposed to gout
- Caution with anticoagulants; monitor prothrombin time
- Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, hot beverages or hot baths
Overdose effects
Overdose: Nausea, dizziness, itching, vomiting, upset stomach, flushing; supportive measures.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protect from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.