Slo-Niacin (nicotinic acid) is used to prevent and treat niacin deficiency (pellagra). Niacin deficiency may result from certain medical conditions (e.g., alcohol abuse, malabsorption syndrome, Hartnup disease), poor diet, or long-term use of certain medications (e.g., isoniazid).

Niacin deficiency can cause diarrhea, confusion (dementia), tongue redness/swelling, and peeling red skin. Niacin is also known as vitamin B3 , one of the B-complex vitamins. Vitamins help to support the body's ability to make and break down natural compounds (metabolism) needed for good health. Niacinamide (nicotinamide) is a different form of vitamin B3 and does not work the same as niacin. Do not substitute unless directed by your doctor.

Niacin may also be used to improve cholesterol and lower fat levels (triglycerides) in the blood under the care of your doctor. It is generally used after non-drug treatments have not been fully successful at lowering cholesterol (e.g., diet change, increase in exercise, weight loss if overweight). Doses for treating these blood fat problems are usually much higher than for dietary problems.

Currently there are no off-label uses for Slo-Niacin.

Slo-Niacin is taken orally with food, normally once or twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Taking niacin on an empty stomach increases side effects (e.g., flushing, upset stomach). Therefore, it is important to follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the information, it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Niacin is available in different formulations (e.g., immediate, sustained release). If your doctor has prescribed niacin, do not switch strengths, brands, or forms because doing so may increase the risk of severe liver problems.

Sustained-release capsules and tablets must be swallowed whole. Check with your pharmacist whether you may break the tablet on the score line. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets or capsules. Doing so can destroy the long action of the drug and may increase side effects.

To prevent flushing, do not take this medication with alcohol or hot drinks. Taking a plain (non-enteric-coated, 325-milligram) aspirin or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (e.g., ibuprofen) 30 minutes before taking niacin may help prevent flushing. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific directions on aspirin/NSAID use before starting your niacin treatment to make sure it is right for you, especially if you are also using "blood thinners" (anticoagulants such as warfarin or heparins).

If you also take certain other drugs to lower blood fats (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take niacin at least 6 hours before or after taking these medications. These products interact with niacin, preventing its full absorption. Continue to take other medications to lower your cholesterol as directed by your doctor.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Follow the directions on the label or your doctor's instructions carefully. If you are taking this for lipid problems, your doctor will start you at a low dose and gradually increase your dose in order to minimize side effects. Your dose will need to be increased slowly even if you are already taking niacin and are being switched from another niacin product to this product. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

If this medication has been prescribed by your doctor, do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to do so. If your doctor tells you to stop taking niacin, do not start taking it again until your doctor has given you instructions on how to restart it. Your dose may need to be gradually increased to the dose you were on.

It is very important to continue to follow your doctor's advice about diet and exercise.

If your condition persists or worsens, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.