Niacin tablets
Niacin tablets
What is this medicine?
NIACIN (NYE a sin) is used in combination with a healthy diet to lower 'bad' cholesterol and increase 'good' cholesterol. This medicine is also used to decrease triglycerides. If triglycerides are too high, you may be at risk of developing pancreatitis. This is a painful condition that causes inflammation of the pancreas and can lead to serious health problems.
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take with a low-fat meal or snack. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
dark urine
feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
general ill feeling or flu-like symptoms
light-colored stools
loss of appetite, nausea
palpitations
right upper belly pain
shortness of breath, wheezing
skin rash and itching
unusually weak or tired
yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
diarrhea
headache
stomach discomfort or bloating
What may interact with this medicine?
aspirin
medicines for blood pressure, chest pain, or heart disease
nitroglycerin
nutritional supplements that contain niacin or nicotinamide
medicines for cholesterol or triglycerides
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
bleeding problems
if you frequently drink alcohol containing drinks
liver disease
ulcers of intestine or stomach
an unusual or allergic reaction to niacin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying or get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You may need regular tests to make sure your liver is working properly.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.
Do not drink hot drinks or alcohol at the same time you take this medicine. Hot drinks and alcohol can increase the flushing caused by this medicine, which can be uncomfortable. Alcohol also can increase possible dizziness. Taking aspirin or an NSAID like ibuprofen 30 minutes before this medicine may help reduce flushing.
This drug is only part of a total heart-health program. Your doctor or a dietician can suggest a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet to help. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule.
If you are diabetic, close regulation and monitoring of your blood sugars can help your blood fat levels. This medicine may change the way your diabetic medication works, and sometimes will require that your dosages be adjusted. Check with your doctor or health care professional.
Updated:  
July 17, 2018