NIACIN vs NIASPAN
Independent side-by-side comparison.
Rating
New
72/100
Pharmacy pays
~$7.53 /30
~$7.53 /30
Type
RX
RX
Active ingredient
NIACIN
NIACIN
Dosage forms
Tablet, Tablet, extended release
Tablet, extended release
Drug class
Nicotinic Acid
Nicotinic Acid
Boxed warning
None
None
Half-life
about 20 to 45 minutes
about 20 to 45 minutes
Treats
Hypercholesterolemia, Pellagra, Hypertriglyceridemia
Hypercholesterolemia, Pellagra, Hypertriglyceridemia
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Niacin or Niaspan?
Pharmacies pay about the same to acquire either one — roughly $7.53 for a 30-count supply, per the CMS NADAC survey. That is not what you will be charged: your price is set by your insurer and the pharmacy, not by what the drug cost them.
What is the difference between Niacin and Niaspan?
Both Niacin and Niaspan share the active ingredient Niacin.
Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data. This comparison is for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional before choosing or switching a medication.