Niacinamide
Also known as: Vitamin B3, Vitamin PP, Niacinamide
- **Give exactly as directed:** This medication is usually given alongside an antibiotic (like tetracycline or doxycycline) to treat immune-mediated skin conditions. - **Be patient:** It often takes **6 to 8 weeks** (sometimes up to 2 months) to see noticeable improvement in your dog's skin. - **Watch for side effects:** Contact your veterinarian if your dog experiences vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual tiredness. - **Do not substitute:** Ensure you are using *niacinamide* (or nicotinamide) and NOT *niacin* (nicotinic acid), as niacin can cause uncomfortable flushing and other side effects. - Do not stop the medication abruptly once the skin looks better; your veterinarian will likely provide a tapering schedule.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Discoid lupus erythematosus
- Discoid lupus erythematosus or pemphigus
- Various immune-mediated diseases (DLE, pemphigus, vasculitis, dermatomyositis, etc.)
- Pemphigus foliaceous
- Adjunctive therapy for pemphigus or discoid lupus erythematosus
- Immunomodulation (e.g., lupoid onychodystrophy, discoid lupus erythematosus, pemphigus foliaceus)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Elevated liver enzymes (occasional)
- Increased seizure frequency (anecdotal)
- Mild gastrointestinal irritation (anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea)
Cautions & contraindications
- Liver disease
- Active peptic ulcers
- Hypersensitivity to niacinamide
- Do not use nicotinic acid (niacin) as a substitute due to severe vasodilation (flushing) effects.
- Use with caution in dogs with a history of seizures. While niacinamide alone is generally considered safe in pregnant and lactating animals, its common concurrent use with tetracycline may not be safe during pregnancy/nursing.
Drug interactions
- Insulin: May require dosage adjustments after initiating niacinamide therapy due to potential alterations in glycemic control.
- Oral Antidiabetic Agents: May require dosage adjustments after initiating niacinamide therapy.
Frequently asked questions
What is Niacinamide used for in pets?
- **Give exactly as directed:** This medication is usually given alongside an antibiotic (like tetracycline or doxycycline) to treat immune-mediated skin conditions. - **Be patient:** It often takes **6 to 8 weeks** (sometimes up to 2 months) to see noticeable improvement in your dog's skin. - **Watch for side effects:** Contact your veterinarian if your dog experiences vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual tiredness. - **Do not substitute:** Ensure you are using *niacinamide* (or nicotinamide) and NOT *niacin* (nicotinic acid), as niacin can cause uncomfortable flushing and other side effects. - Do not stop the medication abruptly once the skin looks better; your veterinarian will likely provide a tapering schedule.
Is Niacinamide safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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