Niacin (Vitamin B3): uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Niacin can raise HDL and lower cholesterol/triglycerides, but flushing limits its use. It belongs to the Cholesterol & antiplatelet (extra) group. These further lower cholesterol or prevent clots in high-risk people.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Cholesterol & antiplatelet (extra)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Raising HDL and lowering triglycerides and LDL (now rarely first choice)
Treating niacin deficiency (pellagra)
Vitamin B3 supplement

Common brand names

India: Niacinamide, Nicotinamide
Worldwide: Niaspan

Common side effects

Flushing, warmth and itching of the skin
Stomach upset
Raised blood sugar
Raised uric acid or gout

Before taking it — precautions

Tell your doctor about liver disease; high-dose niacin can harm the liver
Tell your doctor about diabetes, gout or stomach ulcers
Do not swap between different niacin products without advice

When to see a doctor urgently

Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine or severe tiredness (urgent)
Muscle pain or weakness with dark urine
Fainting, fast heartbeat or severe dizziness

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of niacin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

How can I reduce the flushing?

Taking it with food, avoiding hot drinks and alcohol around the dose, and sometimes aspirin on a doctor's advice can help. Flushing often lessens over time.

Why is it used less now?

Studies showed it did not add heart protection on top of statins, and side effects are common.

Is a vitamin B3 supplement the same?

High-strength cholesterol niacin is very different from the small amounts in a multivitamin; do not self-treat cholesterol with supplements.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.