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Indications

REMS

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

Adverse reactions and side effects refer to doses used to treat hyperlipidemia

CV: orthostatic hypotension.

Derm: flushing of the face and neck, pruritus, burning, dry skin, hyperpigmentation, sebaceous gland activity, rash, stinging or tingling of skin.

EENT: blurred vision, loss of central vision, proptosis, toxic amblyopia.

Endo: hyperglycemia.

GI: GI upset, bloating, diarrhea, dry mouth, flatulence, heartburn, HEPATOTOXICITY, hunger pains, nausea, peptic ulceration.

GU: glycosuria.

Metab: hyperuricemia.

MS: myalgia.

Neuro: dizziness, nervousness, panic.

Interactions

Drug-Drug:

Availability

(Generic available)

Route/Dosage

US Brand Names

Niacor, Niaspan, Slo-Niacin

Action

Therapeutic Effects:

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: lipid-lowering agents, vitamins

Pharmacologic Classification: water soluble vitamins

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed following oral administration.

Distribution: Widely distributed following conversion to niacinamide.

Metabolism/Excretion: Amounts required for metabolic processes are converted to niacinamide. Large doses of niacin are excreted unchanged in the urine.

Half-life: 45 min.

Time/Action Profile

(effects on blood lipids)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
PO (cholesterol)several daysunknownunknown
PO (triglycerides)several hrunknownunknown

Patient/Family Teaching

Pronunciation

NYE-a-sin

Pill Image

niacin_195_8645.jpg