Niacin  (Nicotinic Acid): Medication Information

You have received a prescription for niacin.  This purpose of this information sheet is to inform you about the action, dosage, and side effects of this medication.  If you have any questions regarding your medication, please contact our office.

PURPOSE/ACTION

Niacin is a B-complex vitamin used to treat hypercholesterolemia.  Temporary flushing occurs because this medication dilates blood vessels and increases the blood flow within the inner ear.

DOSAGE:   DO NOT BUY TIMED RELEASE NIACIN TABLETS

50 mg tablets: 

Start with one tablet taken with breakfast and on tablet with your evening meal.  Flushing should occur in 15 to 20 minutes.  If no flushing occurs, increase to two tablets at the next medication time.  If there is still no flushing, increase your dosage to three tablets at your next medication time.  If there is still no flushing, increase your dosage to four tablets at your next medication time.  If you do not have flushing, tingling or a warm feeling on four tablets, remain on this four-tablet dose.

SIDE EFFECTS:

• Headache
• Itching
• Rash
• GI Upset
• Heart Palpitation

 NOTE:

• Take this medication with breakfast and with your evening meal unless you experience gastrointestinal upset.
• Contact this office if you experience muscle weakness or tenderness or if your urine develops a dark color.                               
• Notify your physician if you have heart trouble, gallbladder disease or gout.

LIPOFLAVINOID:
Take two capsules after breakfast and two capsules after dinner.    

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