Niacin, also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid, is a water soluble vitamin that is a vital component of the human diet. Niacin is used to treat and prevent a lack of natural niacin in the body, and to lower cholesterol and triglycerides (types of fat) in the blood. It is also used to lower the risk of heart attack in people with high cholesterol who have already had a heart attack.
Before taking Niacin
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ranitidine or any other medications.
Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease.
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant.
Difficulty breathing
Fainting
Swelling
Muscle pain
Nausea
Diarrhea
Belching
Gas
Insomnia
Flushed Skin
Rapid Heartbeat
Vomiting
Abdominal Pain
Hives
What other information should I know?
Don’t drink hot beverages (such as coffee and hot tea) or alcohol around the time you take your niacin dose, since these drinks may increase the likelihood of flushing.
Taking too much niacin at once is a common mistake that many make. If too much niacin causes a bad reaction, taking Sudafed will help alleviate the symptoms. Diabetics should be aware that ingesting large doses of niacin elevates blood sugar, so they should check with their doctor before taking niacin. As with any vitamin or mineral, an overdose can cause toxic shock, and even death.
