This site is intended for healthcare professionals
FDA Hero  Banner - Multi-coloured pills and tablets
FDA Drug information

Niacin

Read time: 3 mins
Marketing start date: 08 May 2024

Summary of product characteristics


Adverse Reactions

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: • Mortality and Coronary Heart Disease Morbidity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ] • Skeletal Muscle (rhabdomyolysis) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) ] • Liver Dysfunction [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) ] • Laboratory Abnormalities [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Most common adverse reactions (incidence >5% and greater than placebo) are flushing, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, increased cough, and pruritus. ( 6.1 ) Flushing of the skin may be reduced in frequency or severity by pretreatment with aspirin (up to the recommended dose of 325 mg taken 30 minutes prior to niacin extended-release tablets dose). ( 2.2 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Lannett Company, Inc. at 1-844-834-0530 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Studies Experience Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. In the placebo-controlled clinical trials database of 402 patients (age range 21-75 years, 33% women, 89% Caucasians, 7% Blacks, 3% Hispanics, 1% Asians) with a median treatment duration of 16 weeks, 16% of patients on niacin extended-release tablets and 4% of patients on placebo discontinued due to adverse reactions. The most common adverse reactions in the group of patients treated with niacin extended-release tablets that led to treatment discontinuation and occurred at a rate greater than placebo were flushing (6% vs. 0%), rash (2% vs. 0%), diarrhea (2% vs. 0%), nausea (1% vs. 0%), and vomiting (1% vs. 0%). The most commonly reported adverse reactions (incidence >5% and greater than placebo) in the niacin extended-release tablets controlled clinical trial database of 402 patients were flushing, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, increased cough and pruritus. In the placebo-controlled clinical trials, flushing episodes (i.e., warmth, redness, itching and/or tingling) were the most common treatment-emergent adverse reactions (reported by as many as 88% of patients) for niacin extended-release tablets. Spontaneous reports suggest that flushing may also be accompanied by symptoms of dizziness, tachycardia, palpitations, shortness of breath, sweating, burning sensation/skin burning sensation, chills, and/or edema, which in rare cases may lead to syncope. In pivotal studies, 6% (14/245) of niacin extended-release tablets patients discontinued due to flushing. In comparisons of immediate-release (IR) niacin and niacin extended-release tablets, although the proportion of patients who flushed was similar, fewer flushing episodes were reported by patients who received niacin extended-release tablets. Following 4 weeks of maintenance therapy at daily doses of 1500 mg, the incidence of flushing over the 4-week period averaged 8.6 events per patient for IR niacin versus 1.9 following niacin extended-release tablets. Other adverse reactions occurring in ≥5% of patients treated with niacin extended-release tablets and at an incidence greater than placebo are shown in Table 2 below. Table 2. Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions by Dose Level in ≥ 5% of Patients and at an Incidence Greater than Placebo; Regardless of Causality Assessment in Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials Placebo-Controlled Studies Niacin Extended-release Tablets Treatment @ Recommended Daily Maintenance Doses † Placebo (n=157) % 500 mg ‡ (n=87) % 1000 mg (n=110) % 1500 mg (n=136) % 2000 mg (n=95) % Gastrointestinal Disorders Diarrhea 13 7 10 10 14 Nausea 7 5 6 4 11 Vomiting 4 0 2 4 9 Respiratory Cough, Increased 6 3 2 < 2 8 Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders Pruritus 2 8 0 3 0 Rash 0 5 5 5 0 Vascular Disorders Flushing & 19 68 69 63 55 Note: Percentages are calculated from the total number of patients in each column. † Adverse reactions are reported at the initial dose where they occur. @ Pooled results from placebo-controlled studies; for niacin extended-release tablets, n=245 and median treatment duration=16 weeks. Number of niacin extended-release tablets patients (n) are not additive across doses. ‡ The 500 mg/day dose is outside the recommended daily maintenance dosing range [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 ) ] . & 10 patients discontinued before receiving 500 mg, therefore they were not included. In general, the incidence of adverse events was higher in women compared to men. Atherothrombosis Intervention in Metabolic Syndrome with Low HDL/High Triglycerides: Impact on Global Health Outcomes (AIM-HIGH) In AIM-HIGH involving 3414 patients (mean age of 64 years, 15% women, 92% Caucasians, 34% with diabetes mellitus) with stable, previously diagnosed cardiovascular disease, all patients received simvastatin, 40 to 80 mg per day, plus ezetimibe 10 mg per day if needed, to maintain an LDL-C level of 40-80 mg/dL, and were randomized to receive niacin extended-release tablets 1500-2000 mg/day (n=1718) or matching placebo (IR Niacin, 100-150 mg, n=1696). The incidence of the adverse reactions of “blood glucose increased” (6.4% vs. 4.5%) and “diabetes mellitus” (3.6% vs. 2.2%) was significantly higher in the simvastatin plus niacin extended-release tablets group as compared to the simvastatin plus placebo group. There were 5 cases of rhabdomyolysis reported, 4 (0.2%) in the simvastatin plus niacin extended-release tablets group and one (<0.1%) in the simvastatin plus placebo group. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following additional adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of niacin extended-release tablets. Because the below reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is generally not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Cardiac disorders: tachycardia, palpitations, atrial fibrillation, other cardiac arrhythmias Eye disorders: blurred vision, macular edema Gastrointestinal disorders: peptic ulcers, eructation, flatulence Hepatobiliary disorders: hepatitis, jaundice Immune system disorders: hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis, angioedema, urticaria, flushing, dyspnea, tongue edema, larynx edema, face edema, peripheral edema, laryngismus, and vesiculobullous rash) Metabolism and nutrition disorders: decreased glucose tolerance, gout Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: myalgia, myopathy Nervous system disorders: dizziness, insomnia, asthenia, nervousness, paresthesia, migraine Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: dyspnea Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: maculopapular rash, dry skin, sweating, burning sensation/skin burning sensation, skin discoloration, acanthosis nigricans Vascular disorders: syncope, hypotension, postural hypotension Clinical Laboratory Abnormalities Chemistry: Elevations in serum transaminases, LDH, fasting glucose, uric acid, total bilirubin, amylase and creatine kinase, and reduction in phosphorus. Hematology: Slight reductions in platelet counts and prolongation in prothrombin time.

Contraindications

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Niacin extended-release tablets are contraindicated in the following conditions: • Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations in hepatic transaminases [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] • Patients with active peptic ulcer disease • Patients with arterial bleeding • Hypersensitivity to niacin or any component of this medication [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] Active liver disease, which may include unexplained persistent elevations in hepatic transaminase levels. ( 4 , 5.3 ) Active peptic ulcer disease. ( 4 ) Arterial bleeding. ( 4 ) Known hypersensitivity to product components. ( 4 , 6.1 )

Description

11 DESCRIPTION Niacin Extended-release Tablets, USP (niacin tablet, film-coated extended-release), contain niacin, which at therapeutic doses is an antihyperlipidemic agent. Niacin (nicotinic acid, or 3-pyridinecarboxylic acid) is a white, crystalline powder, very soluble in water, with the following structural formula: Niacin extended-release tablets are unscored, red, film-coated tablets for oral administration and are available in two tablet strengths containing 500 and 1000 mg niacin. Niacin extended-release tablets also contain the inactive ingredients black iron oxide, colloidal silicon dioxide, hydroxypropyl cellulose, lecithin, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, red iron oxide, sodium stearyl fumarate, talc, titanium dioxide, and yellow iron oxide. USP Dissolution Test 5. Structure Formula

Dosage And Administration

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Niacin extended-release tablets should be taken at bedtime with a low-fat snack. ( 2.1 ) Dose range: 500 mg to 2000 mg once daily. ( 2.1 ) Therapy with niacin extended-release tablets must be initiated at 500 mg at bedtime in order to reduce the incidence and severity of side effects which may occur during early therapy and should not be increased by more than 500 mg in any 4-week period. ( 2.1 ) Maintenance dose: 1000 to 2000 mg once daily. ( 2.2 ) Doses greater than 2000 mg daily are not recommended. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Initial Dosing Niacin Extended-release Tablets, USP should be taken at bedtime, after a low-fat snack, and doses should be individualized according to patient response. Therapy with niacin extended-release tablets must be initiated at 500 mg at bedtime in order to reduce the incidence and severity of side effects which may occur during early therapy. The recommended dose escalation is shown in Table 1 below. Table 1. Recommended Dosing Week(s) Daily Dose Niacin Extended-release Tablets Dosage INITIAL TITRATION SCHEDULE 1 to 4 500 mg 1 niacin extended-release tablet 500 mg at bedtime 5 to 8 1000 mg 1 niacin extended-release tablet 1000 mg or 2 niacin extended-release tablets 500 mg at bedtime * 1500 mg 3 niacin extended-release tablets 500 mg at bedtime * 2000 mg 2 niacin extended-release tablets 1000 mg or 4 niacin extended-release tablets 500 mg at bedtime * After Week 8, titrate to patient response and tolerance. If response to 1000 mg daily is inadequate, increase dose to 1500 mg daily; may subsequently increase dose to 2000 mg daily. Daily dose should not be increased more than 500 mg in a 4-week period and doses above 2000 mg daily are not recommended. Women may respond at lower doses than men. 2.2 Maintenance Dose The daily dosage of niacin extended-release tablets should not be increased by more than 500 mg in any 4-week period. The recommended maintenance dose is 1000 mg (two 500 mg tablets or one 1000 mg tablet) to 2000 mg (two 1000 mg tablets or four 500 mg tablets) once daily at bedtime. Doses greater than 2000 mg daily are not recommended. Women may respond at lower niacin extended-release tablets doses than men [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )] . Single-dose bioavailability studies have demonstrated that two of the 500 mg and one of the 1000 mg tablet strengths are interchangeable but three of the 500 mg and two of the 750 mg tablet strengths are not interchangeable. Flushing of the skin [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] may be reduced in frequency or severity by pretreatment with aspirin (up to the recommended dose of 325 mg taken 30 minutes prior to niacin extended-release tablets dose). Tolerance to this flushing develops rapidly over the course of several weeks. Flushing, pruritus, and gastrointestinal distress are also greatly reduced by slowly increasing the dose of niacin and avoiding administration on an empty stomach. Concomitant alcoholic, hot drinks or spicy foods may increase the side effects of flushing and pruritus and should be avoided around the time of niacin extended-release tablets ingestion. Equivalent doses of niacin extended-release tablets should not be substituted for sustained-release (modified-release, timed-release) niacin preparations or immediate-release (crystalline) niacin [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5 )] . Patients previously receiving other niacin products should be started with the recommended niacin extended-release tablets titration schedule (see Table 1 ), and the dose should subsequently be individualized based on patient response. If niacin extended-release tablets therapy is discontinued for an extended period, reinstitution of therapy should include a titration phase (see Table 1 ). Niacin extended-release tablets should be taken whole and should not be broken, crushed or chewed before swallowing. 2.3 Dosage in Patients with Renal or Hepatic Impairment Use of niacin extended-release tablets in patients with renal or hepatic impairment has not been studied. Niacin extended-release tablets are contraindicated in patients with significant or unexplained hepatic dysfunction. Niacin extended-release tablets should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5 )] .

Indications And Usage

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Therapy with lipid-altering agents should be only one component of multiple risk factor intervention in individuals at significantly increased risk for atherosclerotic vascular disease due to hyperlipidemia. Niacin therapy is indicated as an adjunct to diet when the response to a diet restricted in saturated fat and cholesterol and other nonpharmacologic measures alone has been inadequate. 1. Niacin extended-release tablets are indicated to reduce elevated TC, LDL-C, Apo B and TG levels, and to increase HDL-C in patients with primary hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidemia. 2. In patients with a history of myocardial infarction and hyperlipidemia, niacin is indicated to reduce the risk of recurrent nonfatal myocardial infarction. 3. In patients with a history of coronary artery disease (CAD) and hyperlipidemia, niacin, in combination with a bile acid binding resin, is indicated to slow progression or promote regression of atherosclerotic disease. 4. Niacin extended-release tablets in combination with a bile acid binding resin is indicated to reduce elevated TC and LDL-C levels in adult patients with primary hyperlipidemia. 5. Niacin is also indicated as adjunctive therapy for treatment of adult patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia who present a risk of pancreatitis and who do not respond adequately to a determined dietary effort to control them. Limitations of Use Addition of niacin extended-release tablets did not reduce cardiovascular morbidity or mortality among patients treated with simvastatin in a large, randomized controlled trial (AIM-HIGH) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Niacin extended-release tablets contain­ extended-release niacin (nicotinic acid), and are indicated: To reduce elevated TC, LDL-C, Apo B and TG, and to increase HDL-C in patients with primary hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidemia. ( 1 ) To reduce the risk of recurrent nonfatal myocardial infarction in patients with a history of myocardial infarction and hyperlipidemia. ( 1 ) In combination with a bile acid binding resin: Slows progression or promotes regression of atherosclerotic disease in patients with a history of coronary artery disease (CAD) and hyperlipidemia. ( 1 ) As an adjunct to diet to reduce elevated TC and LDL-C in adult patients with primary hyperlipidemia. ( 1 ) To reduce TG in adult patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia. ( 1 ) Limitations of use: Addition of niacin extended-release tablets did not reduce cardiovascular morbidity or mortality among patients treated with simvastatin in a large, randomized controlled trial. ( 5.1 )

Overdosage

10 OVERDOSAGE Supportive measures should be undertaken in the event of an overdose.

Adverse Reactions Table

Placebo-Controlled Studies

Niacin Extended-release Tablets Treatment@

Recommended Daily Maintenance Doses

Placebo

(n=157)

%

500 mg

(n=87)

%

1000 mg

(n=110)

%

1500 mg

(n=136)

%

2000 mg

(n=95)

%

Gastrointestinal Disorders
Diarrhea137101014
Nausea 756411
Vomiting40249
Respiratory
Cough, Increased632< 28
Skin and Subcutaneous

Tissue Disorders

Pruritus28030
Rash05550
Vascular Disorders
Flushing&1968696355

Note: Percentages are calculated from the total number of patients in each column.

Adverse reactions are reported at the initial dose where they occur.

@ Pooled results from placebo-controlled studies; for niacin extended-release tablets, n=245 and median

treatment duration=16 weeks. Number of niacin extended-release tablets patients (n) are not additive across doses.

The 500 mg/day dose is outside the recommended daily maintenance dosing range [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

& 10 patients discontinued before receiving 500 mg, therefore they were not included.

Drug Interactions

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Statins: Caution should be used when prescribing niacin with statins as these agents can increase risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis. ( 5.2 , 7.1 ) Bile Acid Sequestrants: Bile acid sequestrants have a high niacin-binding capacity and should be taken at least 4 to 6 hours before niacin extended-release tablets administration. ( 7.2 ) 7.1 Statins Caution should be used when prescribing niacin (≥1 gm/day) with statins as these drugs can increase risk of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5 ) and Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . 7.2 Bile Acid Sequestrants An in vitro study results suggest that the bile acid-binding resins have high niacin binding capacity. Therefore, 4 to 6 hours, or as great an interval as possible, should elapse between the ingestion of bile acid-binding resins and the administration of niacin extended-release tablets [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . 7.3 Aspirin Concomitant aspirin may decrease the metabolic clearance of nicotinic acid. The clinical relevance of this finding is unclear. 7.4 Antihypertensive Therapy Niacin may potentiate the effects of ganglionic blocking agents and vasoactive drugs resulting in postural hypotension. 7.5 Other Vitamins or other nutritional supplements containing large doses of niacin or related compounds such as nicotinamide may potentiate the adverse effects of niacin extended-release tablets. 7.6 Laboratory Test Interactions Niacin may produce false elevations in some fluorometric determinations of plasma or urinary catecholamines. Niacin may also give false-positive reactions with cupric sulfate solution (Benedict’s reagent) in urine glucose tests.

Clinical Pharmacology

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism by which niacin alters lipid profiles has not been well defined. It may involve several actions including partial inhibition of release of free fatty acids from adipose tissue, and increased lipoprotein lipase activity, which may increase the rate of chylomicron triglyceride removal from plasma. Niacin decreases the rate of hepatic synthesis of VLDL and LDL, and does not appear to affect fecal excretion of fats, sterols, or bile acids. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics Absorption Due to extensive and saturable first-pass metabolism, niacin concentrations in the general circulation are dose dependent and highly variable. Time to reach the maximum niacin plasma concentrations was about 5 hours following niacin extended-release tablets. To reduce the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) upset, administration of niacin extended-release tablets with a low-fat meal or snack is recommended. Single-dose bioavailability studies have demonstrated that the 500 mg and 1000 mg tablet strengths are dosage form equivalent but the 500 mg and 750 mg tablet strengths are not dosage form equivalent. Metabolism The pharmacokinetic profile of niacin is complicated due to extensive first-pass metabolism that is dose-rate specific and, at the doses used to treat dyslipidemia, saturable. In humans, one pathway is through a simple conjugation step with glycine to form nicotinuric acid (NUA). NUA is then excreted in the urine, although there may be a small amount of reversible metabolism back to niacin. The other pathway results in the formation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD). It is unclear whether nicotinamide is formed as a precursor to, or following the synthesis of, NAD. Nicotinamide is further metabolized to at least N-methylnicotinamide (MNA) and nicotinamide-N-oxide (NNO). MNA is further metabolized to two other compounds, N-methyl-2-pyridone-5-carboxamide (2PY) and N-methyl-4-pyridone-5-carboxamide (4PY). The formation of 2PY appears to predominate over 4PY in humans. At the doses used to treat hyperlipidemia, these metabolic pathways are saturable, which explains the nonlinear relationship between niacin dose and plasma concentrations following multiple-dose niacin extended-release tablets administration. Nicotinamide does not have hypolipidemic activity; the activity of the other metabolites is unknown. Elimination Following single and multiple doses, approximately 60 to 76% of the niacin dose administered as niacin extended-release tablets was recovered in urine as niacin and metabolites; up to 12% was recovered as unchanged niacin after multiple dosing. The ratio of metabolites recovered in the urine was dependent on the dose administered. Pediatric Use No pharmacokinetic studies have been performed in this population (≤16 years) [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] . Geriatric Use No pharmacokinetic studies have been performed in this population (>65 years) [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 )] . Renal Impairment No pharmacokinetic studies have been performed in this population. Niacin extended-release tablets should be used with caution in patients with renal disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5 )] . Hepatic Impairment No pharmacokinetic studies have been performed in this population. Active liver disease, unexplained transaminase elevations and significant or unexplained hepatic dysfunction are contraindications to the use of niacin extended-release tablets [see Contraindications ( 4 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) ] . Gender Steady-state plasma concentrations of niacin and metabolites after administration of niacin extended-release tablets are generally higher in women than in men, with the magnitude of the difference varying with dose and metabolite. This gender differences observed in plasma levels of niacin and its metabolites may be due to gender-specific differences in metabolic rate or volume of distribution. Recovery of niacin and metabolites in urine, however, is generally similar for men and women, indicating that absorption is similar for both genders [see Gender ( 8.8 )] . Drug interactions Fluvastatin Niacin did not affect fluvastatin pharmacokinetics [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . Lovastatin When niacin extended-release tablets 2000 mg and lovastatin 40 mg were co-administered, niacin extended-release tablets increased lovastatin C max and AUC by 2% and 14%, respectively, and decreased lovastatin acid C max and AUC by 22% and 2%, respectively. Lovastatin reduced niacin extended-release tablets bioavailability by 2-3% [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . Simvastatin When niacin extended-release tablets 2000 mg and simvastatin 40 mg were co-administered, niacin extended-release tablets increased simvastatin C max and AUC by 1% and 9%, respectively, and simvastatin acid C max and AUC by 2% and 18%, respectively. Simvastatin reduced niacin extended-release tablets bioavailability by 2% [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . Bile Acid Sequestrants An in vitro study was carried out investigating the niacin-binding capacity of colestipol and cholestyramine. About 98% of available niacin was bound to colestipol, with 10 to 30% binding to cholestyramine [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )] .

Mechanism Of Action

12.1 Mechanism of Action The mechanism by which niacin alters lipid profiles has not been well defined. It may involve several actions including partial inhibition of release of free fatty acids from adipose tissue, and increased lipoprotein lipase activity, which may increase the rate of chylomicron triglyceride removal from plasma. Niacin decreases the rate of hepatic synthesis of VLDL and LDL, and does not appear to affect fecal excretion of fats, sterols, or bile acids.

Pharmacokinetics

12.3 Pharmacokinetics Absorption Due to extensive and saturable first-pass metabolism, niacin concentrations in the general circulation are dose dependent and highly variable. Time to reach the maximum niacin plasma concentrations was about 5 hours following niacin extended-release tablets. To reduce the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) upset, administration of niacin extended-release tablets with a low-fat meal or snack is recommended. Single-dose bioavailability studies have demonstrated that the 500 mg and 1000 mg tablet strengths are dosage form equivalent but the 500 mg and 750 mg tablet strengths are not dosage form equivalent. Metabolism The pharmacokinetic profile of niacin is complicated due to extensive first-pass metabolism that is dose-rate specific and, at the doses used to treat dyslipidemia, saturable. In humans, one pathway is through a simple conjugation step with glycine to form nicotinuric acid (NUA). NUA is then excreted in the urine, although there may be a small amount of reversible metabolism back to niacin. The other pathway results in the formation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD). It is unclear whether nicotinamide is formed as a precursor to, or following the synthesis of, NAD. Nicotinamide is further metabolized to at least N-methylnicotinamide (MNA) and nicotinamide-N-oxide (NNO). MNA is further metabolized to two other compounds, N-methyl-2-pyridone-5-carboxamide (2PY) and N-methyl-4-pyridone-5-carboxamide (4PY). The formation of 2PY appears to predominate over 4PY in humans. At the doses used to treat hyperlipidemia, these metabolic pathways are saturable, which explains the nonlinear relationship between niacin dose and plasma concentrations following multiple-dose niacin extended-release tablets administration. Nicotinamide does not have hypolipidemic activity; the activity of the other metabolites is unknown. Elimination Following single and multiple doses, approximately 60 to 76% of the niacin dose administered as niacin extended-release tablets was recovered in urine as niacin and metabolites; up to 12% was recovered as unchanged niacin after multiple dosing. The ratio of metabolites recovered in the urine was dependent on the dose administered. Pediatric Use No pharmacokinetic studies have been performed in this population (≤16 years) [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] . Geriatric Use No pharmacokinetic studies have been performed in this population (>65 years) [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 )] . Renal Impairment No pharmacokinetic studies have been performed in this population. Niacin extended-release tablets should be used with caution in patients with renal disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5 )] . Hepatic Impairment No pharmacokinetic studies have been performed in this population. Active liver disease, unexplained transaminase elevations and significant or unexplained hepatic dysfunction are contraindications to the use of niacin extended-release tablets [see Contraindications ( 4 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) ] . Gender Steady-state plasma concentrations of niacin and metabolites after administration of niacin extended-release tablets are generally higher in women than in men, with the magnitude of the difference varying with dose and metabolite. This gender differences observed in plasma levels of niacin and its metabolites may be due to gender-specific differences in metabolic rate or volume of distribution. Recovery of niacin and metabolites in urine, however, is generally similar for men and women, indicating that absorption is similar for both genders [see Gender ( 8.8 )] . Drug interactions Fluvastatin Niacin did not affect fluvastatin pharmacokinetics [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . Lovastatin When niacin extended-release tablets 2000 mg and lovastatin 40 mg were co-administered, niacin extended-release tablets increased lovastatin C max and AUC by 2% and 14%, respectively, and decreased lovastatin acid C max and AUC by 22% and 2%, respectively. Lovastatin reduced niacin extended-release tablets bioavailability by 2-3% [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . Simvastatin When niacin extended-release tablets 2000 mg and simvastatin 40 mg were co-administered, niacin extended-release tablets increased simvastatin C max and AUC by 1% and 9%, respectively, and simvastatin acid C max and AUC by 2% and 18%, respectively. Simvastatin reduced niacin extended-release tablets bioavailability by 2% [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . Bile Acid Sequestrants An in vitro study was carried out investigating the niacin-binding capacity of colestipol and cholestyramine. About 98% of available niacin was bound to colestipol, with 10 to 30% binding to cholestyramine [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )] .

Effective Time

20220523

Version

14

Dosage And Administration Table

Week(s)

Daily Dose

Niacin Extended-release Tablets Dosage

INITIAL TITRATION SCHEDULE

1 to 4

500 mg

1 niacin extended-release tablet 500 mg at bedtime

5 to 8

1000 mg

1 niacin extended-release tablet 1000 mg or

2 niacin extended-release tablets 500 mg at bedtime

*

1500 mg

3 niacin extended-release tablets 500 mg at bedtime

*

2000 mg

2 niacin extended-release tablets 1000 mg or

4 niacin extended-release tablets 500 mg at bedtime

* After Week 8, titrate to patient response and tolerance. If response to 1000 mg daily is inadequate, increase dose to 1500 mg daily; may subsequently increase dose to 2000 mg daily. Daily dose should not be increased more than 500 mg in a 4-week period and doses above 2000 mg daily are not recommended. Women may respond at lower doses than men.

Dosage Forms And Strengths

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS • 500 mg unscored, red, round, film-coated, convex tablet debossed with “KU” on one side, “320” on the other side. • 1000 mg unscored, red, oval, film-coated, convex tablet debossed with “KU” on one side, “322” on the other side. Unscored film-coated tablets for oral administration: 500 and 1000 mg niacin extended-release. ( 3 )

Spl Product Data Elements

Niacin Niacin NIACIN NIACIN SILICON DIOXIDE HYDROXYPROPYL CELLULOSE (70000 WAMW) LECITHIN, SOYBEAN POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 1000 POLYVINYL ALCOHOL, UNSPECIFIED SODIUM STEARYL FUMARATE TALC TITANIUM DIOXIDE FERRIC OXIDE RED FERRIC OXIDE YELLOW KU;320 Niacin Niacin NIACIN NIACIN SILICON DIOXIDE HYDROXYPROPYL CELLULOSE (70000 WAMW) LECITHIN, SOYBEAN POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 1000 POLYVINYL ALCOHOL, UNSPECIFIED SODIUM STEARYL FUMARATE TALC TITANIUM DIOXIDE FERRIC OXIDE RED FERRIC OXIDE YELLOW KU;322

Carcinogenesis And Mutagenesis And Impairment Of Fertility

13.1 Carcinogenesis and Mutagenesis and Impairment of Fertility Niacin administered to mice for a lifetime as a 1% solution in drinking water was not carcinogenic. The mice in this study received approximately 6 to 8 times a human dose of 3000 mg/day as determined on a mg/m 2 basis. Niacin was negative for mutagenicity in the Ames test. No studies on impairment of fertility have been performed. No studies have been conducted with niacin extended-release tablets regarding carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, or impairment of fertility.

Nonclinical Toxicology

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 13.1 Carcinogenesis and Mutagenesis and Impairment of Fertility Niacin administered to mice for a lifetime as a 1% solution in drinking water was not carcinogenic. The mice in this study received approximately 6 to 8 times a human dose of 3000 mg/day as determined on a mg/m 2 basis. Niacin was negative for mutagenicity in the Ames test. No studies on impairment of fertility have been performed. No studies have been conducted with niacin extended-release tablets regarding carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, or impairment of fertility.

Application Number

ANDA203899

Brand Name

Niacin

Generic Name

Niacin

Product Ndc

62175-322

Product Type

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG

Route

ORAL

Package Label Principal Display Panel

500 mg Bottle Label PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 500 mg Tablet Bottle Label NDC 62175- 320 -46 Niacin Extended-release Tablets, USP 500 mg Print Patient Informations at: www.lannett.com/patient-info/niacin Rx Only 90 Tablets 500 mg

Information For Patients

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION 17.1 Patient Counseling Patients should be advised to adhere to their National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) recommended diet, a regular exercise program, and periodic testing of a fasting lipid panel. Patients should be advised to inform other healthcare professionals prescribing a new medication that they are taking niacin extended-release tablets. The patient should be informed of the following: Dosing Time Niacin extended-release tablets should be taken at bedtime, after a low-fat snack. Administration on an empty stomach is not recommended. Tablet Integrity Niacin extended-release tablets should not be broken, crushed or chewed, but should be swallowed whole. Dosing Interruption If dosing is interrupted for any length of time, their physician should be contacted prior to restarting therapy; re-titration is recommended. Muscle Pain Notify their physician of any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness promptly. They should discuss all medication, both prescription and over the counter, with their physician. Flushing Flushing (warmth, redness, itching and/or tingling of the skin) is a common side effect of niacin therapy that may subside after several weeks of consistent niacin extended-release tablets use. Flushing may vary in severity and is more likely to occur with initiation of therapy, or during dose increases. By dosing at bedtime, flushing will most likely occur during sleep. However, if awakened by flushing at night, the patient should get up slowly, especially if feeling dizzy, feeling faint, or taking blood pressure medications. Advise patients of the symptoms of flushing and how they differ from the symptoms of a myocardial infarction. Use of Aspirin Medication Taking aspirin (up to the recommended dose of 325 mg) approximately 30 minutes before dosing can minimize flushing. Diet Avoid ingestion of alcohol, hot beverages and spicy foods around the time of taking niacin extended-release tablets to minimize flushing. Supplements Notify their physician if they are taking vitamins or other nutritional supplements containing niacin or nicotinamide. Dizziness Notify their physician if symptoms of dizziness occur. Diabetics If diabetic, to notify their physician of changes in blood glucose. Pregnancy Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy to discuss if niacin extended-release tablets should be discontinued [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 )] . Lactation Advise patients not to breastfeed during treatment with niacin extended-release tablets. Distributed by: Lannett Company, Inc. Philadelphia, PA 19136 Dispense with Patient Information Leaflets available at: www.lannett.com/patient-info/niacin CIA78142E Rev. 05/2022

Clinical Studies

14 CLINICAL STUDIES 14.1 Niacin Clinical Studies Niacin’s ability to reduce mortality and the risk of definite, nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI) has been assessed in long-term studies. The Coronary Drug Project, completed in 1975, was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of niacin and other lipid-altering drugs in men 30 to 64 years old with a history of MI. Over an observation period of 5 years, niacin treatment was associated with a statistically significant reduction in nonfatal, recurrent MI. The incidence of definite, nonfatal MI was 8.9% for the 1119 patients randomized to nicotinic acid versus 12.2% for the 2789 patients who received placebo ( p <0.004). Total mortality was similar in the two groups at 5 years (24.4% with nicotinic acid versus 25.4% with placebo; p =N.S.). At the time of a 15-year follow-up, there were 11% (69) fewer deaths in the niacin group compared to the placebo cohort (52.0% versus 58.2%; p =0.0004). However, mortality at 15 years was not an original endpoint of the Coronary Drug Project. In addition, patients had not received niacin for approximately 9 years, and confounding variables such as concomitant medication use and medical or surgical treatments were not controlled. The Cholesterol-Lowering Atherosclerosis Study (CLAS) was a randomized, placebo-controlled, angiographic trial testing combined colestipol and niacin therapy in 162 non-smoking males with previous coronary bypass surgery. The primary, per-subject cardiac endpoint was global coronary artery change score. After 2 years, 61% of patients in the placebo cohort showed disease progression by global change score (n=82), compared with only 38.8% of drug-treated subjects (n=80), when both native arteries and grafts were considered ( p <0.005); disease regression also occurred more frequently in the drug-treated group (16.2% versus 2.4%; p =0.002). In a follow-up to this trial in a subgroup of 103 patients treated for 4 years, again, significantly fewer patients in the drug-treated group demonstrated progression than in the placebo cohort (48% versus 85%, respectively; p <0.0001). The Familial Atherosclerosis Treatment Study (FATS) in 146 men ages 62 and younger with Apo B levels ≥125 mg/dL, established coronary artery disease, and family histories of vascular disease, assessed change in severity of disease in the proximal coronary arteries by quantitative arteriography. Patients were given dietary counseling and randomized to treatment with either conventional therapy with double placebo (or placebo plus colestipol if the LDL-C was elevated); lovastatin plus colestipol; or niacin plus colestipol. In the conventional therapy group, 46% of patients had disease progression (and no regression) in at least one of nine proximal coronary segments; regression was the only change in 11%. In contrast, progression (as the only change) was seen in only 25% in the niacin plus colestipol group, while regression was observed in 39%. Though not an original endpoint of the trial, clinical events (death, MI, or revascularization for worsening angina) occurred in 10 of 52 patients who received conventional therapy, compared with 2 of 48 who received niacin plus colestipol. 14.2 Niacin Extended-release Tablets Clinical Studies Placebo-Controlled Clinical Studies in Patients with Primary Hyperlipidemia and Mixed Dyslipidemia: In two randomized, double-blind, parallel, multi-center, placebo-controlled trials, niacin extended-release tablets dosed at 1000, 1500 or 2000 mg daily at bedtime with a low-fat snack for 16 weeks (including 4 weeks of dose escalation) favorably altered lipid profiles compared to placebo ( Table 3 ). Women appeared to have a greater response than men at each niacin extended-release tablets dose level (see Gender Effect , below). Table 3. Lipid Response to Niacin Extended-release Tablets Therapy Mean Percent Change from Baseline to Week 16 * Treatment n TC LDL-C HDL-C TG Apo B Niacin extended-release tablets 1000 mg at bedtime 41 -3 -5 +18 -21 -6 Niacin extended-release tablets 2000 mg at bedtime 41 -10 -14 +22 -28 -16 Placebo 40 0 -1 +4 0 +1 Niacin extended-release tablets 1500 mg at bedtime 76 -8 -12 +20 -13 -12 Placebo 73 +2 +1 +2 +12 +1 n = number of patients at baseline; * Mean percent change from baseline for all niacin extended-release tablets doses was significantly different ( p <0.05) from placebo. In a double-blind, multi-center, forced dose-escalation study, monthly 500 mg increases in niacin extended-release tablets dose resulted in incremental reductions of approximately 5% in LDL-C and Apo B levels in the daily dose range of 500 mg through 2000 mg ( Table 4 ). Women again tended to have a greater response to niacin extended-release tablets than men (see Gender Effect , below). Table 4. Lipid Response in Dose-Escalation Study Mean Percent Change from Baseline * Treatment n TC LDL-C HDL-C TG Apo B Placebo ‡ 44 -2 -1 +5 -6 -2 Niacin extended-release tablets 87 500 mg at bedtime -2 -3 +10 -5 -2 1000 mg at bedtime -5 -9 +15 -11 -7 1500 mg at bedtime -11 -14 +22 -28 -15 2000 mg at bedtime -12 -17 +26 -35 -16 n = number of patients enrolled; ‡ Placebo data shown are after 24 weeks of placebo treatment. * For all niacin extended-release tablets doses except 500 mg, mean percent change from baseline was significantly different ( p <0.05) from placebo for all lipid parameters shown. Pooled results for major lipids from these three placebo-controlled studies are shown below ( Table 5 ). Table 5. Selected Lipid Response to Niacin Extended-release Tablets in Placebo-Controlled Clinical Studies* Mean Baseline and Median Percent Change from Baseline (25 th , 75 th Percentiles) Niacin Extended-release Tablets Dose n LDL-C HDL-C TG 1000 mg at bedtime 104 Baseline (mg/dL) 218 45 172 Percent Change -7 (-15, 0) +14 (+7, +23) -16 (-34, +3) 1500 mg at bedtime 120 Baseline (mg/dL) 212 46 171 Percent Change -13 (-21, -4) +19 (+9, +31) -25 (-45, -2) 2000 mg at bedtime 85 Baseline (mg/dL) 220 44 160 Percent Change -16 (-26, -7) +22 (+15, +34) -38 (-52, -14) * Represents pooled analyses of results; minimum duration on therapy at each dose was 4 weeks. Gender Effect: Combined data from the three placebo-controlled niacin extended-release tablets studies in patients with primary hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidemia suggest that, at each niacin extended-release tablets dose level studied, changes in lipid concentrations are greater for women than for men ( Table 6 ). Table 6. Effect of Gender on Niacin Extended-release Tablets Dose Response Mean Percent Change from Baseline Niacin Extended-release Tablets n LDL-C HDL-C TG Apo B Dose (M/F) M F M F M F M F 500 mg at bedtime 50/37 -2 -5 +11 +8 -3 -9 -1 -5 1000 mg at bedtime 76/52 -6 * -11 * +14 +20 -10 -20 -5 * -10 * 1500 mg at bedtime 104/59 -12 -16 +19 +24 -17 -28 -13 -15 2000 mg at bedtime 75/53 -15 -18 +23 +26 -30 -36 -16 -16 n = number of male/female patients enrolled. * Percent change significantly different between genders ( p <0.05). Other Patient Populations: In a double-blind, multi-center, 19-week study the lipid-altering effects of niacin extended-release tablets (forced titration to 2000 mg at bedtime) were compared to baseline in patients whose primary lipid abnormality was a low level of HDL-C (HDL-C ≤ 40 mg/dL, TG ≤400 mg/dL, and LDL-C ≤160, or <130 mg/dL in the presence of CHD). Results are shown below ( Table 7 ). Table 7. Lipid Response to Niacin Extended-release Tablets in Patients with Low HDL-C Mean Baseline and Mean Percent Change from Baseline * n TC LDL-C HDL-C TG Apo B † Baseline (mg/dL) 88 190 120 31 194 106 Week 19 (% Change) 71 -3 0 +26 -30 -9 n = number of patients * Mean percent change from baseline was significantly different ( p <0.05) for all lipid parameters shown except LDL-C. † n=72 at baseline and 69 at week 19. At niacin extended-release tablets 2000 mg/day, median changes from baseline (25th, 75th percentiles) for LDL-C, HDL-C, and TG were -3% (-14, +12%), +27% (+13, +38%), and -33% (-50, -19%), respectively.

Clinical Studies Table

Mean Percent Change from Baseline to Week 16*
Treatmentn TCLDL-CHDL-CTGApo B
Niacin extended-release tablets 1000 mg at bedtime 41 -3-5 +18 -21 -6
Niacin extended-release tablets 2000 mg at bedtime 41 -10 -14 +22 -28 -16
Placebo 40 0 -1 +4 0 +1
Niacin extended-release tablets 1500 mg at bedtime 76 -8 -12 +20 -13 -12
Placebo 73 +2 +1 +2 +12 +1

n = number of patients at baseline;

* Mean percent change from baseline for all niacin extended-release tablets doses was significantly different (p<0.05) from placebo.

Geriatric Use

8.5 Geriatric Use Of 979 patients in clinical studies of niacin extended-release tablets, 21% of the patients were age 65 and over. No overall differences in safety and effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

Pediatric Use

8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of niacin therapy in pediatric patients (≤16 years) have not been established.

Pregnancy

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Discontinue niacin extended-release tablets when pregnancy is recognized in patients receiving the drug for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. Assess the individual risks and benefits of continuing niacin extended-release tablets during pregnancy in patients receiving the drug for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia. Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy. The potential for embryofetal toxicity with the doses of niacin in niacin extended-release tablets is unknown. The available data on niacin extended-release tablets use in pregnant women are insufficient to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with niacin or with niacin extended-release tablets. Treatment of hypercholesterolemia is not generally necessary during pregnancy. Atherosclerosis is a chronic process and the discontinuation of lipid-lowering drugs during pregnancy should have little impact on the outcome of long-term therapy of primary hypercholesterolemia for most patients. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.

Use In Specific Populations

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy: Discontinue in patients with hyperlipidemia; assess individual risks and benefits in patients with hypertriglyceridemia. ( 8.1 ) Lactation: Advise patients not to breastfeed during treatment. ( 8.2 ) Renal impairment: Niacin extended-release tablets should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. ( 5 , 8.6 ) Hepatic impairment: Niacin extended-release tablets are contraindicated in active liver disease or significant or unexplained hepatic dysfunction or unexplained elevations of serum transaminases. ( 4 , 5 , 5.3 , 8.7 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Discontinue niacin extended-release tablets when pregnancy is recognized in patients receiving the drug for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. Assess the individual risks and benefits of continuing niacin extended-release tablets during pregnancy in patients receiving the drug for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia. Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy. The potential for embryofetal toxicity with the doses of niacin in niacin extended-release tablets is unknown. The available data on niacin extended-release tablets use in pregnant women are insufficient to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with niacin or with niacin extended-release tablets. Treatment of hypercholesterolemia is not generally necessary during pregnancy. Atherosclerosis is a chronic process and the discontinuation of lipid-lowering drugs during pregnancy should have little impact on the outcome of long-term therapy of primary hypercholesterolemia for most patients. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Niacin is present in human milk and the amount of niacin increases with maternal supplementation. There is no information on the effects of the doses of niacin in niacin extended-release tablets on the breastfed infant or the effects on milk production. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfeeding infants, including hepatotoxicity, advise patients not to breastfeed during treatment with niacin extended-release tablets. 8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of niacin therapy in pediatric patients (≤16 years) have not been established. 8.5 Geriatric Use Of 979 patients in clinical studies of niacin extended-release tablets, 21% of the patients were age 65 and over. No overall differences in safety and effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. 8.6 Renal Impairment No studies have been performed in this population. Niacin extended-release tablets should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5 )] . 8.7 Hepatic Impairment No studies have been performed in this population. Niacin extended-release tablets should be used with caution in patients with a past history of liver disease and/or who consume substantial quantities of alcohol. Active liver disease, unexplained transaminase elevations and significant or unexplained hepatic dysfunction are contraindications to the use of niacin extended-release tablets [see Contraindications ( 4 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . 8.8 Gender Data from the clinical trials suggest that women have a greater hypolipidemic response than men at equivalent doses of niacin extended-release tablets.

How Supplied

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Niacin Extended-release Tablets, USP, 500 mg, are unscored, red, round, film-coated, convex tablets debossed with “KU” on one side, “320” on the other side. They are supplied as follows: Bottles of 90 NDC 62175-320-46 Bottles of 1000 NDC 62175-320-43 Niacin Extended-release Tablets, USP, 1000 mg, are unscored, red, oval, film-coated convex tablets debossed with “KU” on one side, “322” on the other side. They are supplied as follows: Bottles of 90 NDC 62175-322-46 Bottles of 1000 NDC 62175-322-43 Storage: Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

Learning Zones

The Learning Zones are an educational resource for healthcare professionals that provide medical information on the epidemiology, pathophysiology and burden of disease, as well as diagnostic techniques and treatment regimens.

Disclaimer

The drug Prescribing Information (PI), including indications, contra-indications, interactions, etc, has been developed using the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as a source (www.fda.gov).

Medthority offers the whole library of PI documents from the FDA. Medthority will not be held liable for explicit or implicit errors, or missing data.

Drugs appearing in this section are approved by the FDA. For regions outside of the United States, this content is for informational purposes only and may not be aligned with local regulatory approvals or guidance.