Niacin is also known as vitamin B-3, or nicotinic acid. Niacin aids in the synthesis of some hormones, the repair of damaged DNA and is a component of the energy-containing compounds NADH and NADPH. Increased doses of niacin are used to treat high cholesterol. It is important to consult with a physician for the diagnosis and treatment of cholesterol and before taking any dietary supplements or medications.
Dose and Administration
The prescribed therapeutic dose of niacin to treat cholesterol usually varies from between 1, 000 to 2, 000 mg per day. Regular niacin is generally administered 2 to 3 times per day orally with meals. An extended release niacin is taken one time per day at bedtime, and should not be broken or chewed.
Formulation
Niacin is available by prescription or over-the-counter. The over-the-counter formulations may be less rigorously tested for purity than the prescription formulations. In addition, many of the over-the-counter formulations claim to avoid side-effects, such as flushing, by substituting niacin with nicotinamide, a form of niacin. In addition to not lowering cholesterol, nicotinamide may be harmful to the liver in high doses. Prescription niacin is used to treat high cholesterol; your doctor may prescribe it in combination with other cholesterol lowering medicines. You should consult with a health care professional to determine the appropriate formulation of niacin for your individual needs.
Mechanism
Niacin can help increase high-density lipoproteins, or HDL, also known as the "good" cholesterol. HDL helps rid the bloodstream of low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, also known as the "bad" cholesterol. LDL can deposit in the arteries, contributing to the formation of plaque, which narrows the arteries. Narrowed and hardened arteries can lead to heart attack and stroke.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of niacin are skin conditions such as flushing, dryness or itching. The flushing usually lasts less than an hour. Some physicians recommend an aspirin or ibuprofen to prevent flushing, but this depends on a person's age and other health conditions. Other more common side effects are gastrointestinal such as nausea. Rare and serious side effects, such as liver damage, can also occur. You should discuss all possible side effects with a physician.
References
- "Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry"; David L. Nelson, et al.; 4th Ed 2004
- "Nutrition Concepts and Controversies"; Frances Sizer, et al.; 11th Ed 2007
- "Basic and Clinical Pharmacology"; Bertram Katzung, et al.; 11th Ed 2009
