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CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM › PERIPHERAL VASODILATORS › PERIPHERAL VASODILATORS › Nicotinic acid and derivatives
nicotinic acid
C04AC01
Forms & Strengths
- Tablets: 100mg, 250mg, 500mg, 750mg, 1000mg
- Extended-release tablets: 500mg, 750mg, 1000mg
- Immediate-release capsules: 250mg, 500mg
- Sustained-release tablets: 250mg, 500mg, 750mg, 1000mg
Adult Dosing
- Hyperlipidemia: 1.5-3g/day in 2-3 divided doses
- Pellagra prophylaxis: 100-200mg/day
- Pellagra treatment: 300-500mg/day
Pediatric Dosing
- Pellagra prophylaxis: 50-100mg/day for children under 12 years
- Pellagra treatment: 100-200mg/day for children under 12 years
Indications
- Hyperlipidemia
- Pellagra prophylaxis and treatment
- Atherosclerotic disease
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits lipolysis in adipose tissue
- Decreases VLDL and triglyceride synthesis
- Increases HDL levels
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to nicotinic acid
- Active peptic ulcer
- Severe liver dysfunction
Adverse Reactions
- Flushing
- Pruritus
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Hepatotoxicity
- Hyperglycemia
Drug Interactions
- Aspirin: increased risk of bleeding
- Antidiabetic agents: increased risk of hypoglycemia
- Bile acid sequestrants: decreased nicotinic acid absorption
- Statins: increased risk of myopathy
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use