Nicotinic acid

Nicotinic acid or niacin is an active ingredient used to treat lipid metabolism disorders. It belongs to the group of lipid-lowering agents and lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol. Due to the occurrence of side effects, nicotinic acid was only sold as a combination preparation with laropiprant. In 2013, however, nicotinic acid was withdrawn from the market because the risk outweighed the benefit. Nicotinic acid is a white, crystalline powder that is soluble in water. It is a vitamin and belongs to the vitamin B3 complex.

Nicotinic acid works by lowering lipids and apolipoprotein B. It also inhibits the synthesis of triglycerides in the liver. Niacin inhibits hepatocyte diacylglcerol acyltransferase-2, thereby preventing the final step in production.

The half-life, i.e. the time the body needs to excrete half of the active substance, is 0.9 hours. The maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), i.e. the maximum concentration of the active substance in the blood plasma (liquid cell-free part of the blood) is 2.42 mcg/mL and is reached after about 3 hours.

Always take nicotinic acid exactly as described in the package leaflet or as advised by your doctor.

Adults:

The usual recommended dose as a vitamin preparation is 16 mg per day for men and 14 mg per day for women.

The following side effects may occur:

Frequent:

• Reddening of the skin
• Feeling of heat
• itching
• Burning sensation on the skin

Occasional:

• Skin rash

Frequency unknown:

• Paralysis
• allergic reactions
• cough
• Breathing difficulties
• pustules
• local skin irritations
• blistering
• swelling
• hives

No known interactions.

Nicotinic acid must NOT be taken in the following cases

• if you are allergic to nicotinic acid
• with very sensitive skin
• with open wounds
• in case of dermatitis
• for skin diseases

Nicotinic acid should NOT be used under the age of 18 due to a lack of data on safety and efficacy.

Nicotinic acid should NOT be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of data on safety and efficacy.