Niceritrol

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Niceritrol

Niceritrol is a vasodilator and nicotinic acid derivative used in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease and hyperlipidemia. It is a prodrug that is converted in the body to nicotinic acid and pentaerythritol.

Pharmacology

Niceritrol is a prodrug, which means it is inactive until it is metabolically converted in the body. It is metabolized into two active compounds: nicotinic acid and pentaerythritol. Nicotinic acid is a form of vitamin B3 that has been used for many years to treat high cholesterol. It works by reducing the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood and increasing the amount of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Pentaerythritol is a vasodilator, which means it widens blood vessels and improves blood flow.

Clinical Use

Niceritrol is used in the treatment of peripheral vascular disease, a condition in which the arteries that carry blood to the arms or legs become narrowed or blocked. This can cause pain and cramping in the affected limbs, especially during exercise. By improving blood flow, niceritrol can help to relieve these symptoms.

Niceritrol is also used to treat hyperlipidemia, a condition characterized by high levels of fats (lipids) in the blood. These can include cholesterol and triglycerides. High levels of these lipids can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Niceritrol works by reducing the levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and increasing the levels of HDL cholesterol.

Side Effects

Like all medications, niceritrol can cause side effects. The most common side effects are flushing (a feeling of warmth and redness in the face), itching, and gastrointestinal problems such as nausea and diarrhea. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own as the body adjusts to the medication.

See Also

• Nicotinic acid
• Pentaerythritol
• Vasodilator
• Prodrug
• Peripheral vascular disease
• Hyperlipidemia