Niacin and its side effects have set off new medical debates.

Does Niacin have any side effects? The answer is a positive one. But it should not surprise us as it is normal for drugs to have side effects. What is Niacin? What is it used for? And what are the possible side effects of Niacin?

Niacin is also known as Vitamin B3 or Nicotinic acid. It is an organic compound and is mostly prescribed to the patients with heart diseases due to artery thickness.

Niacin was first found by Hugo Weidel in 1873 during his studies related to nicotine. It was originally extracted from livers and was later given the name of Niacin to distinguish it from nicotine. Interestingly, it was named vitamin b3 because it is third of the B vitamins which were discovered by then.

Niacin is mainly used to decrease the deficiency of nicotinic acid in the human body. Until recently, the drug’s other medical advantages have also been discovered such as thinning of the arteries and hence prevents artery blockages. In clinical trials, the medical researchers discovered that use of Niacin has decreased the thickness of the artery walls. It also improves cholesterol level in blood.

The possible side-effects of niacin includes: a feeling of warmth on the face and a feeling of blushing on the cheeks. During the first few weeks of the drug’s intake, the user may complain for itching and headache. Other side-effects include stomach problems and irregular heartbeats. Immediate medical help should be taken by the user if the drug causes any allergy.

Niacin