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Nicotinic Acid

Also called: Time Release Niacin, Inositol Hexaniacinate, Extended Release Niacin, IHN

- Summary
- About nicotinic acid
- Potential side effects
- Drug and other interactions
- Conditions of concern
- Lifestyle considerations
- Pregnancy use issues
- Child use issues
- Elderly use issues
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Abdou Elhendy, MD, PhD, FACC, FAHA
 Lee B. Weitzman, M.D, FACC, FCCP

Pregnancy use issues with nicotinic acid

Niacin use during pregnancy has not been tested on humans, so it is not known for certain if nicotinic acid impairs fertility or causes harm to the fetus. However, it is recommended that women taking niacin to reduce high cholesterol discontinue the drug if they plan to – or believe they have – become pregnant. Niacin is excreted in breast milk, and is therefore not recommended for nursing mothers. Patients are encouraged to discuss their concerns with their physicians.

Child use issues with nicotinic acid

Research has not examined the use of high doses of nicotinic acid to treat high cholesterol in children under 16 years of age. Therefore information regarding safety, dosage and effectiveness of these medications in children is not available. However, these medications are not recommended for children under age two because cholesterol is needed for normal development. Parents are encouraged to discuss their concerns about the use of nicotinic acid in their children with their physicians.

Elderly use issues with nicotinic acid

There is no information regarding safety, dosage and effectiveness of these medications in older adults. However, there is no reason to believe that this medication causes different side effects or problems in older adults than in younger adults. Patients are encouraged to discuss their concerns with their physicians.

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Review Date: 01-24-2007

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