Nicotinic Acid Tablets
Active Ingredients: Niacin
Other Names: Equaline Niacin Tablets, Niacin (Vitamin B3) Tablets, Niacin-50 Tablets, Niacor Tablets, Nicotinic Acid Tablets, Vitamin B3 Tablets, Walgreens Gold Seal Niacin Tablets
Drug Class: Antilipemic Agents
Rx Status: Available by prescription and some strengths/formulations are over-the-counter (OTC)
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions: 
What is/are Nicotinic Acid Tablets?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?
What is/are Nicotinic Acid Tablets?
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NIACIN 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 these levels 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.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
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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
How should I use this medicine?
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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.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
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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.
What may interact with this medicine?
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- aspirin
- medicines for blood pressure, chest pain, or heart disease
- nitroglycerin
- nutritional supplements that contain niacin or nicotinamide
- medicines for cholesterol or triglycerides
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
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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
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
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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.
Where should I keep this medicine?
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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.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Last Updated:July 17, 2006 COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company |
