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Home > Medicines & Drugs > Nicotinamide (topical)

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Nicotinamide (topical)

  • Nicotinamide is a topical preparation used to treat inflamed acne.
  • If irritation or peeling of the skin occurs, apply the gel less often until the skin recovers.
  • It may take several weeks before you feel the full benefit of using the gel.

About nicotinamide topical

Type of medicineTopical vitamin
Used forInflammatory acne
Also calledNicam®
Available asGel

Nicotinamide has an anti-inflammatory effect which is helpful in the treatment of acne.

Before using topical nicotinamide

Before using topical nicotinamide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you are taking or using other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use topical nicotinamide

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Wash the area with soap and warm water. Dry gently.
  • Apply a thin layer of gel to the affected areas twice daily. Do not apply it near the eyes, lips or inside the nostrils.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • If the area becomes sore or irritated, miss out a dose or use the gel on alternate days for a while.
  • It may take several weeks before you see the full benefit of this preparation.

Can nicotinamide topical cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effectsWhat can I do if I experience this
Dry skin, irritation, peeling, itching and rednessIf troublesome, reduce your dose to one application each day or every other day

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store topical nicotinamide

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking or using.
  • Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • If you suspect that you or someone else has swallowed any of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • Manufacturer's PIL, Nicam® Gel, Dermal laboratories Limited, electronic Medicines Compendium. Revised August 2003, accessed 26 March 2008.
  • British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2009DocID: 8708DocRef: dils3935Last Reviewed: 21 Apr 2008Version: 2
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