section name header

Pronunciation

NYE-a-sin

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: lipid-lowering agents, vitamins

Pharmacologic Classification: water soluble vitamins

Indications

REMS


Action

  • Required as coenzymes (for lipid metabolism, glycogenolysis, and tissue respiration).
  • Large doses decrease lipoprotein and triglyceride synthesis by inhibiting the release of free fatty acids from adipose tissue and decreasing hepatic lipoprotein synthesis.
  • Cause peripheral vasodilation in large doses.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Decreased blood lipids.
  • Supplementation in deficiency states.

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



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:

Route/Dosage

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Niacor, Niaspan, Slo-Niacin

Pill Image

niacin_195-8645.jpg

Code

NDC Code