Niacin For High Cholesterol (Systemic)

Brand Names : Niacor, Niaspan, Nicolar, Nicotinex Elixir, Slo-Niacin, Novo-Niacin, nicotinic acid, vitamin B 3

Category

• Antihyperlipidemic

Description

Niacin (NYE-a-sin) is used to help lower high cholesterol and fat levels in the blood. This may help prevent medical problems caused by cholesterol and fat clogging the blood vessels.

Some strengths of niacin are available only with your doctor's prescription. Others are available without a prescription, since niacin is also a vitamin. However, it is best to take it only under your doctor's direction so that you can be sure you are taking the correct dose.

Niacin for use in the treatment of high cholesterol is available in the following dosage forms:

Oral
• Extended-release capsules (U.S.)
• Solution (U.S.)
• Tablets (U.S. and Canada)
• Extended-release tablets (U.S. and Canada)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S. -

• Niacor
• Niaspan
• Nicolar
• Nicotinex Elixir
• Slo-Niacin

In Canada -

• Novo-Niacin

Generic name product may be available in the U.S. and Canada.

Other commonly used names are nicotinic acid or vitamin B ₃ .