^

Nicotinic acid for weight loss

, medical expert
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
Fact-checked
х

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

Despite the fact that the name of nicotinic acid in most people is associated with cigarettes, to them it has nothing to do.

Common names of nicotinic acid:

  • niacin;
  • vitamin PP;
  • vitamin B3.

The name of the substance in Latin is Acidum nicotinicum. The chemical name is 3-Pyridinecarboxylic acid. The formula is C6H5NO3.

Nicotinic acid, according to the medical classification, is a low-molecular organic compound (vitamin) that is necessary for the human body not less than, vitamin C, tocopherol, retinol, cyanocobalamin, etc. Niacin affects the stability of the functions of the central and autonomic nervous systems. Activates the work of the hematopoietic system, the gastrointestinal tract, promotes the stabilization of the hormonal background.

Nicotinic acid stimulates the production of enzymes involved in the cleavage of lipids and carbohydrates. Lack of niacin leads to excessive consumption of sweet and flour dishes. If you do not limit the amount of carbohydrates in your diet, the result will be not only obesity, but also serious systemic diseases.

Stocks of nicotinic acid can be replenished from natural sources - vegetables (potatoes - medium baked potato with peel includes 3.3 mg of niacin, skinless to 2.2 mg, green peas, cabbage (broccoli, leaf, savoy), mushrooms, peppers, tomatoes), buckwheat , wild rice, peanut nuts, brewer's yeast, meat, offal (pork and beef liver), etc. Of the meat and legume products, nicotinic acid is easier to digest than from cereals. This vitamin can be synthesized by the body from tryptophan contained in curds and eggs. To reduce body weight, nutritionists are not recommended to get involved in the use of the above-mentioned protein products. In order to replenish the supply of vitamin PP, it is better to use non-food sources. To reduce and stabilize the weight of scientists developed special diets with the use of tablets of nicotinic acid.

trusted-source[1],

Indications of the nicotinic acid for weight loss

Pellagra and other conditions caused by a lack of vitamin PP (depression of the immune system, fatigue, irritability, insomnia, depressive states, neuroses); migraine; atherosclerosis; paroxysmal ischemia of extremities; impaired cerebral circulation; cerebrovascular diseases; Hartnup disease; hyperlipidemia; obesity; Raynaud's disease; Gastrointestinal diseases.

trusted-source[2], [3], [4],

Release form

Pharmaceutical industry Nicotinic acid is available in the form of tablets, powder, solution.

Tablets - white or milky white biconvex with a separating stroke, containing 0,05 g of niacin, packed in 50 pcs.

The powder has a crystalline structure of white color, not odorless, and slightly acidic. Hardly soluble in cold water, ethanol, ether; faster dissolves in hot water.

Injection solutions in ampoules. The active active ingredient is nicotinic acid (in 1 ml of r-10 mg of vit. PP). Excipients: natrii hydrocarbonas, aqua destillata. Colorless transparent solution, odorless.

Nicotinic acid in slimming pills

Nicotinic acid belongs to the group of vitamin preparations. It should be recalled that niacin is a medicinal product. Before the start of the consultation, the therapist is required. Taking any drug requires caution and moderation.

Penetrating into the systemic circulation, vitamin B3 enters the brain. Neurons respond to niacin with serotonin production. This neurotransmitter (the hormone of "joy") provides a good mood for a person. Scientifically proven that during the depressive states the production of serotonin is minimized. The level of the hormone "happiness" depends directly on the food ration. When there is a shortage of serotonin, a person needs more calories (biscuits, cakes, cakes, etc.) and foods that contain a lot of glucose (chocolate, candy, etc.). The body seeks to activate hormone production through additional consumption of foods containing an increased amount of carbohydrates. Reception of nicotinic acid automatically reduces the need for carbohydrate food, contributes to easier adaptation to a strict diet.

In the instructions to the drug, one of the indications for the appointment is obesity, lipid metabolism disorders and glucose tolerance. In the elimination of excess kilograms Vitamin B3 is used as a catalyst for redox reactions in the conversion of fats. Niacin in the fight against obesity can not act as the main means to achieve the goal. It is used in a complex of measures aimed at improving metabolic processes in obesity. The greatest effectiveness from the use of tablets of nicotinic acid for weight loss will be obtained in case of obvious deficiency of vitamin PP in the body.

trusted-source[5],

Pharmacodynamics

Niacin inhibits the hormone-dependent transformation of triacylglycerols in lipid tissue, reduces the production of VLDL (Very Low Density Lipoprotein).

It has the property of normalizing lipid composition of blood: it reduces the generation of cholesterol, reduces the amount of neutral fats, raises the level of high-density lipids.

Vitamin B3 reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Nicotinic acid has a pronounced detoxification effect. Participates in the synthesis of rhodopsin. Activates kinin and releases histamine from the depot.

trusted-source[6], [7], [8], [9]

Pharmacokinetics

When taken orally absorbed quickly throughout the gastrointestinal tract. It is transformed by the action of enzymes into nicotinamide. The maximum concentration in the bloodstream reaches 45 minutes.

Metabolised by the liver. The half-life interval is 45 minutes.

Leaves the body with urine in the form of inactive metabolites.

trusted-source[10], [11], [12]

Dosing and administration

Dosage is strictly individual. The maximum daily dose is not more than 1 g. The average daily therapeutic dose of nicotinic acid is 18-21 mg. For weight loss appoint 10 to 25 mg of the drug per day. This dosage is sufficient for the development of the optimal level of serotonin. The drug is taken in courses lasting 15-20 days. Dosage and duration of therapy are regulated by a physician.

Oral tablets are taken only after meals.

The drug should be washed down with a sufficient amount of liquid (pure water, milk, compote). Alcohol-containing and carbonated drinks are excluded. It is not recommended to drink Nicotine acid with tea or coffee.

The duration of the drug depends on the degree of vitamin deficiency and is adjusted by the doctor.

When taking Vitamin PP it is necessary to eat rationally.

Use of the nicotinic acid for weight loss during pregnancy

With great care appointed by a doctor in gestational or lactation periods. The use of high doses is unacceptable.

Contraindications

  • Ulcerous lesions of the gastrointestinal tract in the history or period of their exacerbation.
  • Chronic and acute functional lesions of the liver.
  • Deep destructive changes in the kidneys with a violation of filtration ability.
  • Inflammation of the joints.
  • Increased uric acid in the blood (hyperuricemia).
  • Hypersensitivity to the drug.

trusted-source[13], [14], [15], [16]

Side effects of the nicotinic acid for weight loss

In many cases of nicotinic acid, patients notice flushing of the face and skin, a feeling of warmth throughout the body. These side effects take place within 2 hours and are not grounds for discontinuing the drug. If the side effects are persistent, intrusive and persistent, then this is an occasion to consult a specialist and to decide whether to cancel the drug.

The use of niacin can cause allergic reactions - intense face hyperemia, tingling and burning sensation in the extremities, dizziness, hypotension, itching, nettle rash.

On the part of the gastrointestinal tract - a loose and frequent stool, eating disorders, attacks of vomiting, impaired liver function, gastritis.

trusted-source[17], [18]

Overdose

With prolonged use or accidental administration of a large dose of nicotinic acid, diarrhea, vomiting, and headache may occur. These symptoms pass by themselves when the drug is withdrawn. The use of an antidote is not required.

trusted-source[19], [20], [21], [22]

Interactions with other drugs

Strengthens the action of cardiac glycosides, fibrinolytic drugs and drugs that eliminate bouts of spasmodic pain. Reduces the absorption and activity of cholic acids. Oppresses the hypoglycemic effect of drugs for the treatment of diabetes. Potentiates the toxic effects of neomycin, derivatives of barbituric acid, sulfonamides, antituberculous agents. Increases the toxicity of the effects on the liver of alcohol-containing drugs and beverages. Carefully apply Vit.RP with aspirin, lowering blood pressure, anticoagulants.

trusted-source[23], [24]

Storage conditions

According to the instructions, the drug should be stored in a dry place, inaccessible to sunlight, with an air temperature of 15 to 20 ° C.

trusted-source[25], [26], [27], [28], [29]

Shelf life

Shelf life - up to 5 years. The use of nicotinic acid is prohibited after the end of the consumption date indicated on the package.

trusted-source[30]

Reviews of those who lose weight and doctors

On the Internet, there are a lot of different opinions about the benefits and harms of nicotinic acid for weight loss. There can not be a single negative or positive answer. But, almost all the testimonies of those who lose weight testify that nicotinic acid helps in combating excess kilograms, promotes skin rejuvenation, favorably affects hair strengthening. The intake of vitamin PP should be controlled by a doctor or a nutritionist. With some diseases (acute or chronic liver damage, a tendency to bleeding, hypertension), nicotinic acid is contraindicated. In no case should you overdose niacin, because instead of benefits you can get additional problems: dizziness, vomiting, anorexia, etc.

The doctors' comments about nicotinic acid for weight loss are as follows: the drug can and should be prescribed if there are pronounced signs of a lack of niacin: a severe case is pellagra, hypovitaminosis of the vitamin PP, which is expressed by a violation of the autonomic and central nervous system, intestines, dystrophic skin changes. Due to the fact that nicotinic acid affects many metabolic processes, including lipid-carbohydrate, it can be used as a component of complex treatment of obesity. But it must be taken into account that no medicine, in and of itself, will lead to the desired result. Here we need a synergistic solution to the problem, which includes: rational nutrition, outdoor walks, special exercise complexes. Tablets of nicotinic acid for weight loss can only normalize metabolic processes in the body.

Attention!

To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Nicotinic acid for weight loss" translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.

Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.

You are reporting a typo in the following text:
Simply click the "Send typo report" button to complete the report. You can also include a comment.