Maybe your doctor has prescribed you a new medication to control your cholesterol. When you hear that it's called niacin, you may be a little curious and maybe even a little scared about what it is. But don't worry, this is actually a vitamin that our body needs. However, there are a few things we need to be careful about when using it as a medicine. Let's talk about it all in a simple and clear way today.
What is Niacin?
Simply put, Niacin is vitamin B3. It is essential for the healthy functioning of our body. It helps to maintain a healthy heart, blood vessels, and metabolism.
A doctor prescribes this as a medication for two main reasons:
1. Treat niacin deficiency: Restore niacin levels in those with low levels.
2. Control cholesterol: This is the most common reason it is used. This medicine helps to reduce the levels of "bad cholesterol" in your blood, namely LDL and triglycerides, and increase the levels of "good cholesterol" (HDL), which is beneficial for the body.
Remember, although niacin is a vitamin, it is not a good medicine to buy from the pharmacy on a whim to lower cholesterol without the advice of a doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medication, he or she needs to give you a complete picture of your health. Only then will you be able to decide whether this medication is right for you or not. Be sure to mention the following things in particular:
- If you have bleeding problems .
- If you are a regular drinker .
- If you have liver disease.
- If you have ulcers in the intestines or stomach.
- If you have an allergy to niacin or other medicines, foods, or dyes.
- If you are pregnant , trying to get pregnant , or breastfeeding .
Don't hide this information from the doctor, because it will ensure your safety.
How should I use this medicine?
It is very important to follow the exact instructions for using this medicine.
- Swallow this pill with a glass of water.
- Try to take it at the same time every day.
- This is the most important thing: Do not break, crush, or chew this pill. These are designed to release the medicine slowly into the body (extended-release). Therefore, the pill should be swallowed whole.
- Take this with a low-fat meal or a small snack. Do not take on an empty stomach.
- Continue using it until your doctor tells you to stop.
What if I take too much by mistake?
If you think you have taken too much medicine by mistake, don't delay. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
This medicine is for you only. Do not give it to a friend who has the same symptoms as you.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
Oh, it can happen. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once just because you missed one.
Other things that may interact with Niacin
Some other medications you take may interact with niacin. Therefore, tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and nutritional supplements you take.
| Type of medicine/substance | Reason to be concerned |
|---|---|
| Aspirin | It may be possible to modify the side effects of niacin. |
| Medicines for high blood pressure and chest pain | Blood pressure may drop unnecessarily. |
| Nitroglycerin | Dizziness and low blood pressure may increase. |
| Other nutritional supplements containing niacin or nicotinamide | Too much niacin in the body can cause side effects. |
| Other cholesterol-lowering medications (e.g. statins) | The risk of certain side effects may be increased. |
This list may not be complete, so be sure to tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
See the doctor often.
After you start taking this medicine, your doctor will need to see you regularly to check your progress. He or she will also order blood tests to check things like your cholesterol level and liver function. Don't skip these tests.
Flushing
A common side effect of niacin for many people is a red, burning sensation in the face, neck, and chest. This is called 'flushing'. This is usually not dangerous, but it can be a little uncomfortable.
The good news is that this can be prevented. All you have to do is avoid drinking hot drinks (like tea, coffee) and alcohol while taking the medication.
Driving and machinery
This medicine may make you feel a little dizzy or lightheaded. So don't drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you. This risk is increased if you take it with alcohol.
For those with diabetes
If you have diabetes, be extra careful with your blood sugar levels while taking this medicine. Niacin can cause your blood sugar levels to rise. Your doctor may need to adjust the dosage of your diabetes medication.
The pill cover comes out with the stool.
This may seem a little strange, but it's nothing to worry about. The tablet shell doesn't dissolve, so it can be completely excreted in your stool. This is normal, as the medicine has been absorbed into your body.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medication, niacin can cause side effects. Some are serious, while others are mild.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Liver injury | Pain in the upper right abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stools, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and extreme fatigue. |
| Increased blood sugar (Hyperglycemia) | Excessive thirst, frequent urination, unusual weakness, blurred vision. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Flushing | The face and neck become red and feel hot. |
| Bloating | Stomach full of air. |
| Burping | Frequent urination. |
Take-Home Message
- Niacin is vitamin B3. It is a drug that is mainly used to lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.
- Never break, crush, or chew this tablet. Swallow it whole with water.
- Flushing is common. To reduce this, avoid hot drinks and alcohol while taking the medication.
- It is very important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- If you experience serious symptoms such as yellowing of the skin, severe stomach pain, or allergic reactions, seek medical advice immediately.
- Get your blood tests done on time and continue to attend clinics as your doctor recommends.
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