Niacin(nye’ ah sin)
Niacor, Niaspan, Slo-Niacin
PREGNANCY CATEGORY C
Drug Classes
Antihyperlipidemic
Vitamin
Therapeutic Actions
May partially inhibit the release of free fatty acids from adipose tissue and increase lipoprotein activity, which could increase the rate of triglyceride removal from plasma; these actions reduce the total LDL and triglycerides and increase HDL. Niacin also decreases serum levels of apo B and lipoprotein A.
Indications
Adjunct to diet for treatment of adults with very high serum triglyceride levels (types IV and V hyperlipidemia) who present a risk of pancreatitis and who do not respond adequately to dietary control
Adjunct for treatment of adults with hypercholesterolemia
Treatment of pellagra, niacin deficiency
Reduction of risk of nonfatal MI in patients with a history of MI and hyperlipidemia
In combination with a bile acid–binding resin to slow the progression of atherosclerotic disease in patients with known CAD and hyperlipidemia
Contraindications and Cautions
Contraindicated with hepatic impairment, active peptic ulcer disease, arterial bleeding, lactation.
Use cautiously with history of jaundice, hepatobiliary disease, peptic ulcer, high alcohol consumption, renal impairment, unstable angina, gout, recent surgery, pregnancy.
Available Forms
ER tabletsDNC—500, 750, 1,000 mg; tablets—50, 100, 250, 500 mg; OTC CR tabletsDNC—250, 500, 750 mg; OTC CR capsulesDNC—250, 400 mg; OTC SR capsulesDNC—125, 500 mg
Dosages
Adults and pediatric patients older than 16 yr
Dyslipidemia: Initially, 100 mg PO tid, increased to 1,000 mg PO tid (immediate-release form); 500 mg/day PO at bedtime for 4 wk, then 1,000 mg/day PO at bedtime for another 4 wk (extended-release form); titrate to patient response and tolerance. Maximum dosage is 2,000 mg/day; 1,000–2,000 mg/day PO (sustained-release form).
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